IFEBP > ACA University > Health Plan Design > Waiting Periods Waiting Periods The Affordable Care Act (ACA) bans health coverage waiting periods of more than 90 days. Waiting periods of up to 90 calendar days are allowed after a participant satisfies the plan's conditions for eligibility. Articles Complying With the Affordable Care Act--90-Day Limit on Waiting Periods , International Foundation , 3/1/2013 In 2014, group health plans can't make eligible employees wait more than 90 days to be offered health care coverage. Types of waiting periods common to multiemployer plans may be affected by the new rule, under the latest regulatory guidance. FAQs Does an employee receive a Form 1095-C if she is in a waiting period?, International Foundation, 2/28/2017 What is the effect of probationary employment on the 90 day waiting period? When does coverage need to be offered?, International Foundation, 6/6/2016 How do the Affordable Care Act’s 90-day waiting period, permissible orientation period, and employer shared responsibility requirements interact?, International Foundation, 11/21/2014 Can an employer or a collective bargaining agreement require an employee to work 1,456 hours within 12 consecutive months before becoming eligible for health care coverage?, International Foundation, 4/30/2014 How does the 90-day waiting period work for multiemployer plans?, International Foundation, 1/15/2014 Government Resources Ninety (90) Day Waiting Period Limitation, IRS, EBSA, HHS, 6/25/2014 Final rule on allowable bona fide orientation periods before the beginning of a 90-day waiting period that is not longer than one month. The orientation period is one month, not 30 or 31 days. One month is measured by adding one calendar month and subtracting one calendar day from an employee�s start date. The waiting period begins the day after the orientation period ends. Ninety (90) Day Waiting Period Limitation, IRS, EBSA, HHS, 2/24/2014 Final rule prohibits group health plans from requiring employees to wait more than 90 days before health insurance becomes effective. Plan enrollment also can be based on meeting a substantive eligibility condition such as meeting sales goals, being in an eligible job classification, achieving job-related licensure requirements or completing an orientation period. FAQs About ACA Implementation Part XVI, EBSA, 9/1/2013 Employer exchange notice and 90-day waiting period, including multiemployer plans Ninety (90) Day Waiting Period Limitation, IRS, EBSA, HHS, 3/21/2013 Proposed rule implementing the ban on waiting periods exceeding 90 days