New Job for IVF?

MarylandWed

I know I am the only person who can answer this question for myself but I thought I would post anyway... I was laid off in '09 and decided to go into business for myself. I have worked hard and make a modest living - enough to be able to continue to work from home and be my own boss. I am really happy in that regard. I also thought it would be a great situation for having a family. Now fast forward and here we are. While we live in a state that mandates insurance pay for three IVF cycles, my husband's company (I am on his insurance) is exempt. We cannot afford IVF on our own. I am thinking about getting a job just for the IVF benefits. Is that ridiculous?

jchow009

My information might not be accurate.  I think even the state mandates certain infertility treatment, if the company you work for is self insured, they will get exemption.  And, at least in NY, most companies are self insured.  Before you make this move, you should definitely talk to the company's HR.

MarylandWed

jchow009:

My information might not be accurate.  I think even the state mandates certain infertility treatment, if the company you work for is self insured, they will get exemption.  And, at least in NY, most companies are self insured.  Before you make this move, you should definitely talk to the company's HR.

Yes, h's company is self insured, that's why they received their exemption. I would definitely check over benefits before accepting a position. It would have to be one where the company is not exempt.

jbelle

I vote no. Not ridiculous at all.

I would worry about waiting periods and/or pre-existing conditions; I have no idea if either is a legit concern with IF.

There are also non-profits that help couples afford fertility treatments... I am totally blanking at the moment, but it might be worth a search or two.

FWIW, I loved working at a major, state university (for many reasons). I had to leave that job when I married and moved out of state, but the benefits were great. 

Mrs.McIrish

Not ridiculous at all.  I have fantastic insurance and would never had been able to have all the treatment I have if they weren't paying most of the bill.  If you can make it work, it's a great thing.

BabyVDM

I vote no.  Not ridiculous at all too.

I really like my job (interpersonal communication issues with my boss and all) and I really like the company I work for.  I get everything I want here but feriltiy treatments are capped at $6000 lifetime and when it runs out I'll be looking for another if we still TTC. 

P

 

tampabayRN

Not at all!  I am so envious of you guys with IF coverage. I live in Florida and the majority of plans here do not cover a thing or at minimum coverage for testing until you get a diagnosis.

Mayzie15

Not ridiculous at all. I've been looking at jobs based solely on insurance. I'm an accountant and been with my current company for 13 years but I would take a pay cut for amazing insurance on a heartbeat! Being OOP we have spent about 30k so far! Good luck with your search.

MarylandWed

Thanks guys. I feel like my job is one of the best things going for me right now so it would suck to give that up. But so would giving up the idea of ever having a child... Mayzie...how do you bring this up or find out about a company's insurance before accepting a position?

annalisel

Uh, no. Not ridiculous. If you are happy in your work situation, maybe your husband could a different job?

Mayzie15

MarylandWed:

Thanks guys. I feel like my job is one of the best things going for me right now so it would suck to give that up. But so would giving up the idea of ever having a child... Mayzie...how do you bring this up or find out about a company's insurance before accepting a position?

I'm looking at bigger companies. I've googled companies that have IVF insurance and several in my area popped up. I'm a manager so it will be tough to transition and I have tons of vacation and sick time I've accrued. The vacation gets paid out but not the sick time if I leave. I have to way it all out. I'm in a mandated state but nothing is covered! Go figure!

chicagobride_07

As others have said, the mandate doesn't count for much- as there are many ways around it (self insured company, company with headquarters out of state, etc.).  We are in a mandated state- my DH works for a very large employer here- only for 2013 did they start offering IF benefits (and they've been around for a long time).  The plans before specifically excluded this. 

chucktgirl

I think it's definitely worth looking into! Crazy how important insurance is. Just remember, some times when you get a new insurance they make you wait 6 months or so before specialty coverage kicks in. Make sure you inquire about that! Good luck!