Milwaukee County employees’ health insurance coverage is in the news lately, due to an error in the renewal process for the County’s health insurance contract. Unfortunately, the County’s contract with United Healthcare lapsed at the end of 2025 without a renewal in place. More than 5,000 employees and retirees are covered under this policy, WPR reported, and rely on this insurance for doctor’s visits, prescriptions, hospitalizations, and other health care.
As of this writing, Milwaukee County employees remain covered for the time being under an extension of the plan. But these types of errors from employers happen more often that you might think.
It is totally understandable for you to feel angry, worried, or scared if you’ve unexpectedly lost health insurance coverage that you thought was continuing. This is particularly true if you have been hit with bills for medical care you thought was covered under your insurance! But you may have legal options. Employees insured by plans from their employers have rights under state or federal insurance regulation or employee benefits laws. You may be able to enforce those rights to recover your unexpected bills during certain time periods.
What to Do If You Lose Insurance Coverage Due to Your Employer’s Error
First, save all documentation from your health insurer, hospitals, or clinics. This can include letters, bills, or explanation of benefits statements (EOBs). These documents will be critical in assessing your case.
Second, save all communication from your employer about the lapse in coverage. If you received an email, print or screenshot it; if you were told about the lapse verbally, write down a neutral description of what you were told.
Third, check your paystubs. Verify whether or not your employer continued deducting your insurance premiums after your insurance was actually canceled, and whether they have refunded those premiums to you.
Finally, ask for help.
If you recently lost health insurance due to your employer’s error, seek legal assistance. If you are confused about your rights, have unpaid medical bills, or have been denied care due to a lapse in health insurance coverage caused by your employer’s error, reach out to an experienced employee benefits attorney. We can help you understand your rights and next steps.