Skip to main content

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

Notice: During the government shutdown, continue using your 2025 health insurance plan and providers. Use this site to apply for and enroll in 2026 coverage during Marketplace Open Enrollment.
Back to glossary

Pre-existing condition exclusion period (individual policy)

The time period during which an individual policy won't pay for care relating to a pre-existing condition. Under an individual policy, conditions may be excluded permanently (known as an "exclusionary rider"). Rules on pre-existing condition exclusion periods in individual policies vary widely by state.