F.A.Q.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Membership
- Joining/Eligibility
  - How do I sign up?
    
    How do I sign up?
    
    Simply click the "Become a Member" link at the top of the homepage. You'll be asked to fill out your personal information, including payment information, and choose a username and password.
    
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  - Are there any eligibility requirements to become a member?
    
    Are there any eligibility requirements to become a member?
    
    Nope! We only ask that you consider yourself an artist, as we are an arts service organization. It really wouldn't make sense for others to use our programs, as they're all geared towards artists. That being said, this doesn't mean that you have to be a full-time artist. You might just enjoy painting or acting in your spare time. It doesn't matter to us! We're not going to check your qualifications.
    
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  - Is there a waiting period after I sign up until I can begin using the services?
    
    Is there a waiting period after I sign up until I can begin using the services?
    
    Nope! Simply sign up online and you'll be able to immediately log into the website and begin using our services.
    
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  - I was told I receive a free Associate Membership through another organization of which I'm a member. How do I take advantage of that?
    
    I was told I receive a free Associate Membership through another organization of which I'm a member. How do I take advantage of that?
    
    Please contact the other organization for sign-up information. They will give you a website which you'll need to go to in order to sign up. If you have a problem retrieving this information, please contact our Director of Member Services.
    
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  - I'm not a member. Can I use any of Fractured Atlas' services?
    
    I'm not a member. Can I use any of Fractured Atlas' services?
    
    You can feel free to read and post to our Message Boards (located under the Community link at the top of the website), look through our JobBank, or read our newsletter. You can also browse the copious amounts of information about our programs and services on our website.
    
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- Member Benefits
  - What do I get with my membership?
    
    What do I get with my membership?
    
    You can feel free to use any and all of our programs and services (which is basically everything on our website). Some of these services (insurance and 1-on-1 intensives, for instance) have extra fees associated with them. But, these fees are much more low-cost than you would encounter if you tried finding the same services on your own, as we've negotiated special rates for our members. We have to charge for these because unfortunately, we can't pay for your insurance and, for services like our 1-on-1 intensives, you're receiving personalized attention from a consultant. Please keep in mind that to use some services, like Fiscal Sponsorship, you need to submit a separate application once you've signed up for membership.
    
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  - I'm an Associate Member through another organization. What do I have access to?
    
    I'm an Associate Member through another organization. What do I have access to?
    
    You have access to all of our services, except Fiscal Sponsorship and our Grant Program. Should you wish to apply to either program, you must upgrade to a paid membership. Please contact our office if you're interested in doing so. Associate Members should consider themselves Individual Members -- only the member who signed up with us can use our programs and services.
    
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  - I live outside of New York City. Can I use your services?
    
    I live outside of New York City. Can I use your services?
    
    Of course! We're a national organization for artists across the country. Many of our members naturally reside in and around New York City, but we have hundreds of members in 40+ other states (and in foreign countries!). We pride ourselves on the fact that all of our services can be used by artists nationwide. The one or two services that are New York-only are pilot programs that are currently in a testing phase -- we hope to launch these programs nationwide in the future should they prove effective.
    
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  - I live outside of the United States. Can I use your services?
    
    I live outside of the United States. Can I use your services?
    
    You are more than welcome to join -- we definitely have a number of members residing outside the US. However, we can't guarantee that you'll be able to use all of our services (healthcare insurance, for example). We definitely do encourage you to join though, if just to be a part of a very large artist community. And there certainly are services that you should find useful.
    
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  - I have an Individual Membership, but want to get healthcare insurance for my family and/or liability insurance for my company. Can I do that?
    
    I have an Individual Membership, but want to get healthcare insurance for my family and/or liability insurance for my company. Can I do that?
    
    Membership levels have nothing to do with procuring either type of insurance. If you're an Individual Member and want to register yourself and your family for healthcare insurance, feel free to do so. If you work, or are a part of, a company that needs event or film liability insurance, you can feel free to apply on their behalf.
    
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  - Do I automatically receive Fiscal Sponsorship once I sign up as a member?
    
    Do I automatically receive Fiscal Sponsorship once I sign up as a member?
    
    No. Once you become a member, you need to apply for Fiscal Sponsorship. You can do this immediately after signing up with Fractured Atlas. Please consult the Fiscal Sponsorship section of our website for more information.
    
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- Membership Levels
  - Are there different levels of membership? What do they signify?
    
    Are there different levels of membership? What do they signify?
    
    An Individual Membership is for one person only -- only the member can use our programs and services. A Partner Membership is for a two-person team (whether you're domestic partners, siblings, friends, coworkers, collaborators, etc.) The second person (whose name is not the lead name on the account at sign up) will need to register as a User on the account to be able to use our services (you can do so by having the lead member log into the website, click on Settings, and then on Users). An Organizational Membership is for three people (you can add more to the membership at an additional fee) that are in the same organization. This organization does not need to be an LLC, nor does it need to be any type of established entity. If a group of you want to start a band and call yourselves ABC Rock Stars, then that's your organization, whether officially recognized or not. The members of the organization (beyond the lead member on the account when you sign up) will need to register as Users on the account to be able to use our services (you can do so by having the lead member log into the website, click on Settings, and then on Users).
    
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  - I have a Partner or Organizational Membership, but I'm the only one with login information. Can I add users to my account?
    
    I have a Partner or Organizational Membership, but I'm the only one with login information. Can I add users to my account?
    
    Yes! Simply log into the website using your username and password, then click on Settings at the top of the page. On the resulting page, click on the Users tab. You can add users to your account there.
    
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  - Can I upgrade/downgrade my membership level?
    
    Can I upgrade/downgrade my membership level?
    
    Certainly, and at any time! Simply contact our Director of Member Services to do so. To upgrade, we will ask that you have payment information handy, as we will pro-rate the cost difference between the two membership levels. There is no cost to downgrade levels; you will not receive a refund for any dues already paid.
    
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- Membership Dues/Payment
  - How much does membership cost?
    
    How much does membership cost?
    
    For an Individual Membership, $75/year or $7.50/month (which equals $90). For a two-person Partner Membership, $125/year or $12.50/month (which equals $150). For a three-person Organizational Membership, $150/year or $15/month (which equals $180). If you'd like to have more than three people on your membership, you can add additional members to an Organizational membership at the rate of $25/year or $2.50/month (which equals $30) per additional member.
    
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  - Will I get a receipt when my dues are paid?
    
    Will I get a receipt when my dues are paid?
    
    Yes. Once your credit/debit card is charged for your membership dues, an email receipt will be sent to the address you have on file with us.
    
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  - Can I pay my membership dues with funds from my fiscally sponsored fund?
    
    Can I pay my membership dues with funds from my fiscally sponsored fund?
    
    Yes, you definitely can! To do so, please contact our office before your renewal date.
    
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  - Can I pay for membership using someone else's credit/debit card?
    
    Can I pay for membership using someone else's credit/debit card?
    
    Yes. However, we ask that you be sure to update this information as necessary. If the person no longer wishes to pay for your membership and your membership dues renew to their card, they aren't going to be very happy.
    
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  - I received an email/call that my membership dues didn't go through. What do I do now?
    
    I received an email/call that my membership dues didn't go through. What do I do now?
    
    Your credit card information is either outdated or the card you're using is over its limit. Please call our office with new payment information (or update it online by logging in and clicking on Settings) and we can get you squared away.
    
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  - I can no longer afford Fractured Atlas, but would like to remain a member. What can I do?
    
    I can no longer afford Fractured Atlas, but would like to remain a member. What can I do?
    
    In some special cases, when warranted, the Director of Member Services can approve a free extension of membership. We would hate to lose you, but please understand that we are a non-profit organization and can only offer extensions in special cases. Please contact our Director of Member Services to discuss extension possibilities.
    
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- Member Directory / Public Profile
  - How do I search for a specific member?
    
    How do I search for a specific member?
    
    By clicking on Member Directory under the Community link at the top of the website, you can peruse information that other Fractured Atlas members have listed in their Public Profiles. You can search by name, artistic discipline, or any other tidbit of information that you�re interested in. Please note that not every member has a Public Profile and, if they do, it might not always be updated with recent information. Still, it�s a good way to find out about other Fractured Atlas members.
    
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  - How do I contact a specific member?
    
    How do I contact a specific member?
    
    If you can find the member through our Member Directory, you have the ability to contact them by clicking on �Send a Private Message� beneath their Public Profile. An alert that they have a private message will be sent to the email address they have on file with us. Should their email address be current, and should they wish to contact you in return, you will receive an alert in your own inbox stating that the member has replied to your private message. Simply click on the link in the email, log into the website, and you can view the message. As we hold our members� personal privacy sacred, we do not give out member phone numbers, mailing addresses, or email addresses. If you cannot locate a member through our Member Directory and would like to initiate contact with a specific member, please call our office. We can contact the member on your behalf and provide them with your contact information.
    
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  - Can I contact the entire Fractured Atlas membership or a select subset of them?
    
    Can I contact the entire Fractured Atlas membership or a select subset of them?
    
    No, unfortunately not. If you�d like to get the word out about an event, simply post it to the Calendar of Events and it will be listed in our Community Bulletin in the week it occurs. If you have other information to disseminate, please list it on our Message Boards.
    
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  - What is a Public Profile? How do I create one?
    
    What is a Public Profile? How do I create one?
    
    Each Fractured Atlas member is entitled to set up a Public Profile, which lists general information about themselves and their art. Other members (and non-members) can search and view these profiles. It�s a great way to network and make yourself known. If you�d like to create a Public Profile, log into the website with your username and password, then click on Settings. The first tab on the resulting page says Public Profile. Fill in the information there.
    
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  - I just Googled myself and found my name on your website! I don�t want it there. How do I remove it?
    
    I just Googled myself and found my name on your website! I don�t want it there. How do I remove it?
    
    This is a result of the Public Profile function on our site. To remove your name, simply log into the website with your username and password, then click on Settings. The first tab on the resulting page says Public Profile. Remove any information that you do not wish to be public.
    
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  - How do I upload images into my Image Gallery?
    
    How do I upload images into my Image Gallery?
    
    Each Fractured Atlas member is entitled to set up an Image Gallery with photos of their work (any type of artwork is allowed). Other members (and non-members) can search and view these galleries. It�s a great way to show off your work. If you�d like to create an Image Gallery, log into the website with your username and password, then click on Settings. The first tab on the resulting page says Public Profile. At the bottom of the form, you�ll see a link to manage your online gallery. Add new photos there.
    
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- Updating Information
  - How do I update the personal information (including payment and login information) you have on file for me?
    
    How do I update the personal information (including payment and login information) you have on file for me?
    
    The best way is to log into the website (using your username and password) and click on Settings at the top of the website. You can also feel free to call or email our office.
    
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  - I forgot my username and/or password. Help!
    
    I forgot my username and/or password. Help!
    
    Don't worry! Simply click on Member Login on the website. To the right, you'll see a Forgot Your Password box. Enter the email address you signed up with and your login information will be sent to that email address in about 10 minutes. If you're still having problems, give our office a call.
    
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  - Can I switch my membership into someone else's name?
    
    Can I switch my membership into someone else's name?
    
    Certainly. To do so, please have the original member contact the Director of Member Services with the new member's contact and payment information. There is no cost to do this.
    
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- Renewing/Reactivating/Canceling
  - Will Fractured Atlas alert me when my membership is about to renew?
    
    Will Fractured Atlas alert me when my membership is about to renew?
    
    Yes. Two weeks before your membership renews, we will send an email to the address you have on file with us. If you didn't receive it, please make sure your email address in our file is up-to-date and your junk mail settings allow all fracturedatlas.org emails through.
    
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  - I didn't approve Fractured Atlas to renew my membership! Why did you do that?!
    
    I didn't approve Fractured Atlas to renew my membership! Why did you do that?!
    
    In the terms and conditions that you read upon signing up, it clearly states that we will automatically renew your membership monthly or annually (depending on what you selected at sign up). You will always receive an email notice that your membership is about to renew two weeks before the renewal date. If you didn't receive it, please make sure your email address in our file is up-to-date and your junk mail settings allow all fracturedatlas.org emails through. If you didn't want your membership to renew, please contact our office -- we can terminate your membership and refund the dues that were charged to your card (as long as it's within 90 days of the charge).
    
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  - Can I reactivate my membership once I've cancelled?
    
    Can I reactivate my membership once I've cancelled?
    
    Certainly - and at any time! Simply email or call our Director of Member Services and have your credit/debit card handy. We can take care of the reactivation immediately.
    
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  - How do I cancel my membership?
    
    How do I cancel my membership?
    
    Why would you ever want to leave?! Just kidding! We understand that, because of certain circumstances, you might need to cancel. The best way is to go to www.fracturedatlas.org/cancel and log in when prompted. You can also contact the Director of Member Services.
    
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Healthcare
- Healthcare Basics
  - What should I look for when evaluating health insurance choices and choosing the right plan for me?
    What should I look for when evaluating health insurance choices and choosing the right plan for me?
    
    Although everyone's individual needs are different, there are key factors that you should look at when making a fully informed choice for one plan over another. Here are several key questions you should ask yourself when looking over your healthcare options.
    
    When looking over your healthcare options, ask yourself:
    
    How all-inclusive do I want coverage of healthcare services to be?
    
    How much am I willing to spend on premiums?
    
    What type of healthcare plan is this, ie. a medical discount plan, limited benefit plan, or a full featured plan?
    
    Is it a group plan or an individual health insurance policy?
    
    Is this plan considered to be continuous credible coverage under HIPAA?
    
    You should also make separate checklists and see what type of benefit coverage each plan offers for the following:
    
    Preventative Care
    
    Care by Specialists
    
    Hospitalization
    
    Emergency Care
    
    Prescriptions
    
    Mental Healthcare
    
    For each one, find out how much is your responsibility to pay or what circumstances, if at all, apply, before the plan begins to cover for each type of care or treatment. For instance:
    
    What co-payments must you pay for certain types of services?
    
    Are there any deductibles that must be met by you before the insurance starts to cover the cost?
    
    If the deductible is met, what portion of the cost is paid by the plan?
    
    How much will you have to pay if you go out-of-network?
    
    Are there any limits to how much the insurance company pays over a given benefit period, for instance over a year or a lifetime?
    
    After you’ve done that, you are now ready to ask yourself: Is there a complimentary fit between what is provided under any particular plan and what you think you’ll need?
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a medical discount plan?
    
    What is a medical discount plan?
    
    A medical discount plan is not insurance and doesn't pay for any of your costs, but offers reduced rates on eligible services by participating network providers. Reduced rates vary by provider and type of services received. It is your sole responsibility to pay all health bills incurred out of pocket.
    
    While NOT insurance, this provides an affordable alternative for individuals looking to minimize their out of pocket healthcare costs.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a limited benefit plan?
    
    What is a limited benefit plan?
    
    Quite often called a "bare bones" plan, limited benefit plans provide much lesser benefits than a traditional health insurance plan in exchange for much lower premiums. When considering these plans, it is important to know exactly what types of care or services the plan will or will not pay for and how much coverage it actually provides. These plans usually include pre-existing conditions exclusions.
    
    While the plan administrators of most of these plans are HIPAA compliant (meaning they must follow certain aspects of HIPAA, ie. privacy rights and other regulations), these plans are not considered to be continuous creditable coverage under HIPAA as there are certain qualifications a health plan must meet in order to be considered continuous credible coverage.
    
    As a result, you may be subject to an exclusionary wait period for any pre-existing conditions that existed before your enrollment start date in a full featured healthcare plan, (such as a group or individual plan)if your prior coverage was under a limited benefit plan. The maximum look back period for pre-existing conditions before your enrollment start date may differ upon the insurance carrier and state/federal law.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a full featured plan?
    
    What is a full featured plan?
    
    Full featured plans are also commonly called "traditional" healthcare plans that typically offer comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical care, services, and treatment. As a result, these plans generally are more expensive as they provide for greater protection from larger medical expenses.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a copay?
    
    What is a copay?
    
    A copay is a cost sharing system between you and the insurance company. You pay a flat fee, such as $25 for a doctor's office visit, required at the time any covered medical service is received. The insurance company is responsible for the difference. There may be different copays depending upon type of provider or service.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a deductible?
    
    What is a deductible?
    
    A deductible is the fixed dollar amount you must pay of your own funds each calendar year before your health insurance begins to make payments for covered medical services.
    
    All deductibles reset once a year on January 1. Typically, the higher the deductible, the lower the premiums and vice versa. Deductible amounts usually differ out of network (proving to be higher).
    
    When selecting a plan, you should know what plan benefits are subject to the deductible, and what portion of the cost (set as percentages) is covered by the plan once it has been met. This is typically referred to as coinsurance. If the cost is covered 100% after the deductible, then coinsurance is not applicable. See "What is co-insurance?"
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is co-insurance?
    
    What is co-insurance?
    
    Co-insurance is a policy provision under which you and the insurance company share the total cost of covered medical services after the deductible has been met set as fixed percentages.
    
    For illustrative purposes, a particular plan may provide 75/25% coinsurance (after a $2,000 deductible has been met) up to a specified amount called the coinsurance out of pocket maximum (in this case $3,000).
    
    This means that you'll pay the the first $2,000 of covered expenses subject to the deductible. Then, you'll pay 25% of all covered expenses up to the point that you've paid $3,000, (while the insurance company pays 75%). After that, the plan typically pays 100% of covered charges for the remainder of the year on an in network basis, up to the policy maximum.
    
    Please note that coinsurance percentages and coinsurance out of pocket maximums differ out of network with you covering a greater portion of the cost overall. Once met, most policies typically only cover the maximum allowable amount of the usual and customary rate (UCR). You can be balanced billed for the difference. See "What is the usual and customary rate (UCR)?"
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is the total out-of-pocket maximum?
    
    What is the total out-of-pocket maximum?
    
    The maximum dollar amount that must be met by you out of your own funds during the benefit period, before the insurance company pays 100% of all covered expenses, usually up to an annual or lifetime maximum.
    
    Before this maximum is met, you and the insurance company share the cost of all covered expenses as set by the co-insurance after the initial deductible has been met. The amount is determined by adding your deductible and coinsurance out of pocket maximum together.
    
    For instance, if you have a $3,000 deductible and a coinsurance out of pocket maximum of $5,000, then your total annual expenses is $8,000 for eligible medical benefits. Regular premiums do not count towards meeting the maximum out-of-pocket total.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is an annual maximum?
    
    What is an annual maximum?
    
    An annual maximum the maximum dollar amount an insurance company will pay over the benefit of a year for all covered expenses.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is an HSA (Health Savings Account)?
    
    What is an HSA (Health Savings Account)?
    
    An HSA is a special type of account that offers tax benefits on money put aside for future medical expenses. Anyone who buys a qualified high deductible health plan (one that meets the requirements the government has determined), qualifies for an HSA.
    
    You enjoy tax-deductible contributions, tax-deferred interest and tax-advantaged withdrawals for qualified medical expenses (these do NOT count towards meeting your deductible) OR for eligible expenses that qualify towards meeting your deductible. See "What is an eligible expense?" and "What is a qualified medical expense?" Unused balances from year to year roll over from year to year.
    
    Please refer to the IRS website for all applicable HSA guidelines which must be adhered to: IRS.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a formulary prescription?
    
    What is a formulary prescription?
    
    A formulary list is a pre-approved list of preferred generic or brand name prescriptions that is covered under a healthcare plan. The list is determined by the insurance company and may be subject to change at any time.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is an EPO?
    
    What is an EPO?
    
    EPO stands for Exclusive Provider Organization. This is a type of health insurance plan that offers in-network coverage only. Enrollees must select in-network providers when seeking medical care, services, or treatment. No referrals are required in order to access care.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a PPO?
    
    What is a PPO?
    
    PPO stands for Preferred Provider Organization. This is a type of health insurance plan that offers in-network as well as out-of-network coverage. However, out-of-network coverage is typically subject to either a higher deductible or lower co-insurance than in-network, often times both. No referrals are required in order to access care.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is an HMO?
    
    What is an HMO?
    
    HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization. This is a health insurance plan that offers comprehensive health services with only modest co-pays and no deductibles or co-insurance. This plan features in-network coverage only. Referrals are required for any specialized medical care or service and are issued by your primary care physician (PCP) as need be.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
- HIPAA Rules
  - What is HIPAA?
    
    What is HIPAA?
    
    HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This is a federal law that offers you certain protections when transferring your healthcare coverage from one plan to another, limits exclusions for pre-existing conditions, includes provisions that address privacy and security of health data, and prohibits discrimination against you based on your health status, disability, medical history, or genetic information.
    
    *All aspects of HIPAA regulation may not be applicable to individual health insurance policies.
    
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    Don't sue us! Fractured Atlas is not an insurance company. We're also not lawyers, brokers, agents, doctors, or anyone else qualified to give professional advice. We try our best to be helpful, but take anything written here with a handful of salt.
  - What is a pre-existing condition and what's the difference between the "objective standard" and the "prudent standard" of the definition of a pre-existing condition?
    
    What is a pre-existing condition and what's the difference between the "objective standard" and the "prudent standard" of the definition of a pre-existing condition?
    
    A pre-existing condition is a medical condition or healthcare problem that existed before enrolling in a healthcare plan. The "objective standard" of the definition states that a pre-existing condition is anything for which you've received medical advice, care, diagnosis and treatment prior to your enrollment.
    
    By contrast, the "prudent standard" of the definition states that a pre-existing condition is any condition for which symptoms were present although medical advice, care, diagnosis, or treatment may not have been received prior to enrollment. Under the "prudent standard," an "ordinarily prudent" individual surely would have sought medical advice, care, diagnosis, or treatment for any symptoms that were present prior to enrollment.
    
    Most states implement the prudent standard of the definition.
    
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  - What is a pre-existing condition, as defined under HIPAA?
    
    What is a pre-existing condition, as defined under HIPAA?
    
    A pre-existing condition is anything for which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received within six months before the effective start date of enrollment in a group healthcare plan. Under the law, group health plans may not impose an exclusionary wait period for pre-existing conditions longer than 12 months (or 18 months for late enrollees). *This is not applicable to individual health insurance policies.
    
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  - When would I be subject to an exclusionary wait period for pre-existing conditions under HIPAA continous creditable coverage, such as a group health plans?
    When would I be subject to an exclusionary wait period for pre-existing conditions under HIPAA continous creditable coverage, such as a group health plans?
    
    You may be subject to an exclusionary waiting period for pre-existing conditions if any of the following conditions apply:
    
    You are not currently insured but sought medical advice, care, or treatment within the last six months before the effective start date in any given health insurance plan
    
    If you were previously insured, but there's been a gap in coverage longer than 63 days
    
    You currently are insured, but your current health insurance plan does not qualify as creditable coverage
    
    *Note: Group health plans may not impose a pre-existing condition exclusionary waiting period for pregnancy whether or not the woman had previous health coverage.
    
    In addition, a pre-existing exclusionary wait period may not be applied to newborns, newly adopted children or children placed for adoption under 18, as long as the child was covered within 30 days of the date of birth, adoption or placement for adoption and provided there was no significant break of coverage longer than 63 days.
    
    *This is not applicable to individual health insurance policies.
    
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  - I've had a medical condition in the past. Can my plan deny coverage under the claim that it's a pre-existing condition?
    
    I've had a medical condition in the past. Can my plan deny coverage under the claim that it's a pre-existing condition?
    
    Under HIPAA qualified continuous creditable coverage group health plans, it would in all actuality be dependant upon whether or not you had received any type of medical advice, care, or treatments within a six month period prior to the effective start date of your enrollment.
    
    If it has been longer than six months since you've received any medical advice or care related to that condition, then it cannot be subject to a pre-existing condition exclusionary wait period. *This is not applicable to individual health insurance policies.
    
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  - What types of healthcare plans are not subject to HIPAA and why?
    
    What types of healthcare plans are not subject to HIPAA and why?
    
    HIPAA is a federal law that applies to group health plans and is enforced by the Secretary of Labor. Private health insurance, on the other hand, is state regulated. Therefore, the individual health insurance market must adhere to all state rules and regulations of any given particular state. All state rules and regulations differ from state to state and exclusions may apply as appropriate.
    
    Individual health insurance policies or state high risk pool plans are not subject to HIPAA except in the case where it grants access to individual healthcare policies for "HIPAA eligible" individuals only.
    
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  - Who qualifies as a "HIPAA eligible" individual?
    Who qualifies as a "HIPAA eligible" individual?
    
    "HIPAA eligible" individuals must have exhausted all options for coverage under any group plan and must meet all of the following criteria:
    
    Have had continuous coverage for a minimum of 18 months with the most recent period under a group health plan without a significant break in coverage of more than 63 days in a row.
    
    Have been offered the option for continuation of COBRA coverage, and have elected and exhausted it, or are ineligible for continuation of COBRA coverage altogether, or other similar state programs
    
    Did not have their group coverage terminated because of nonpayment of premiums or fraud
    
    Are not eligible for coverage under another group plan, Medicaid, or Medicare.
    
    In this case, only applicable individual health policies or state high risk pool plans may not exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions nor turn down an application for coverage only if all of the criteria is met as a "HIPAA eligible" individual and the individual applied within 63 days of the last date of coverage under a group plan.
    
    Individual market carriers may elect their two most popular individual health policies or "representative plans" for "HIPAA eligible" individuals. These are the only plans that may not impose pre-existing condition exclusions, but HIPAA does not limit premium rates on these individual policies.
    
    *Note: all "HIPAA eligible" individuals must apply to the appropriate entity as mandated by their state of residency. For instance, some states guarantee access to healthcare for "HIPAA eligible" individuals to high risk pools only, while other states guarantee access to all individual markets carriers, or both.
    
    Individual market carriers may impose a wait period for pre-existing conditions or deny coverage to "HIPAA eligible" individuals if access to non-group healthcare is provided by state high risk pools only.
    
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  - What is a state high risk pool?
    
    What is a state high risk pool?
    
    State high risk pools are state programs that offer health insurance to "uninsurable" individuals who are unable to obtain health insurance coverage through a group plan, are ineligible for Medicaid/Medicare, and cannot afford an individual health insurance policy.
    
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  - What is the difference between individual health insurance plans and group health plans?
    What is the difference between individual health insurance plans and group health plans?
    
    A group health plan covers a group of people and is subject to state and federal law. Group plans are traditionally offered by employers, unions, and trade and member associations. Individual health insurance plans are subject to state laws which differ from state-to-state. When considering individual health insurance plans, ask yourself the following questions:
    What are the rules and regulations for individual health policies in my state?
    Am I a "HIPAA eligible" individual and if so, is this individual policy applicable to HIPAA rules and regulations?
    
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  - What is and qualifies as creditable coverage under HIPAA?
    
    What is and qualifies as creditable coverage under HIPAA?
    
    Creditable coverage is defined as certain types of prior health insurance coverage that may qualify in order to shorten or waive a pre-existing condition waiting period. This includes most comparable group healthcare plans, in certain cases, individual health insurance policies, Medicaid, Medicare, COBRA, state health benefits risk pools, the Peace Corps Act, or public healthcare plans.
    
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  - What does not qualify as creditable continuous coverage under HIPAA?
    
    What does not qualify as creditable continuous coverage under HIPAA?
    
    In most cases, limited benefit plans and medical discount programs are not considered to be creditable continuous coverage and should not be mistaken for major medical or full featured plans.
    
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  - How would health insurance providers know if I have a pre-existing condition?
    
    How would health insurance providers know if I have a pre-existing condition?
    
    Once coverage begins under any given health plan, any claims filed by you may be investigated as a possible pre-existing condition. Depending on state law, insurers can look back months or even years to see if the condition existed before your enrollment.
    
    If evidence is found, insurers can deny any claims or benefit coverage for that condition and all care/treatment related to it. However, only in the case of HIPAA qualified creditable coverage group health plans, the maximum look back period is six months.
    
    *States also differ upon which standard is used in defining a "pre-existing condition." Some states use the "objective standard," which defines a "pre-existing condition" as anything for which you've received medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment.
    
    Conversely, most states support a much broader definition based on the "prudent person" standard. Under this standard, a "pre-existing condition" also includes anything may not been diagnosed, but showed symptoms for which an "ordinarily prudent person" would have sought medical advice, diagnosis, care, and treatment.
    
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  - If I get coverage as a sole proprietor or self-employed individual, how does this differ from a group health plan or an individual plan?
    
    If I get coverage as a sole proprietor or self-employed individual, how does this differ from a group health plan or an individual plan?
    
    Technically, this depends upon state law and the insurance carrier. For instance, in NY, individuals are eligible for "group coverage" as a sole proprietor. Essentially, under NY state law, sole proprietors are enrolling in group coverage as a "group of one." Fractured Atlas' current NY HIP plans are full featured plans specifically designed for creative independent workers.
    
    These differ from individual health policies which are not considered to be group coverage, and as such, are subject to state laws while group coverage are subject to state and federal laws, including HIPAA.
    
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- Fractured Atlas Healthcare Plans
  - HIP Plans (NY Only)
    What are the main differences between HIP Select PPO Plan #1 and HIP Select PPO Plan #2?
    
    What are the main differences between HIP Select PPO Plan #1 and HIP Select PPO Plan #2?
    
    HIP Select PPO Plan #1 and #2, mainly differ in following ways:
    
    Prescription Coverage
    
    Generic prescription drugs are subject to a $15 co-pay. Formulary required (a preapproved list of prescriptions covered by HIP). Brand names and nonformulary prescriptions are NOT covered on PPO #1 versus
    
    Generic prescription drugs are subject to a $20 co-pay and brand names are subject to a $30 copay. Nonformulary prescriptions are subject to a $50 copay on PPO #2
    
    Out of network annual deductible and coinsurance and annual out-of-pocket maximums
    
    Deductible: $4,000 individual/$8,000 family and 50/50 coinsurance up to the annual out of pocket maximum of $20,000 individual/$40,000 family on PPO #1 versus
    
    Deductible: $3,000 individual/$6,000 family and 70/30 coinsurance up to the annual out of pocket maximum of $10,000 individual/$20,000 family on PPO #2
    
    Speech, Physical, Occupational, and Respiratory Therapy
    
    When part of an inpatient hospital acute admission (in or out-of-network), it's covered on both PPO # 1 and PPO #2 on a short term basis only and is subject to the deductible and coinsurance
    
    However, when it's part of an inpatient hospital rehabilitation admission it is NOT covered at all on PPO #1 versus
    
    Coverage for up to 30 days per calendar year subject to the deductible and coinsurance in network only on PPO #2
    
    On an outpatient basis, it's NOT covered at all on PPO #1 versus
    
    Coverage for up to 30 visits per calendar year subject to the specialist office visit copay in-network or subject to the deductible and coinsurance out-of-network on PPO#2
    
    Mental Healthcare
    
    As an inpatient, both PPO #1 and PPO # 2 provide coverage for up to 30 days per calendar year with no copay in network or subject to the deductible and coinsurance out of network
    
    However, on an outpatient basis, PPO # 1 includes coverage for up to 20 visits per calendar year subject to the specialist office copay in network or subject to the deductible and coinsurance out-of-network on PPO #1 versus
    
    Coverage for up to 60 visits per calendar year subject to the specialist office copay in network or subject to the deductible and coinsurance out of network on PPO #2
    
    You may also refer to the HIP Comparison Chart for easy reference provided online. For a comprehensive and detailed listing of medical services that are covered, please refer to the summary of benefits provided online on the healthcare page for each plan
    
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    What are the eligibility requirements for HIP?
    
    What are the eligibility requirements for HIP?
    
    You must be a Fractured Atlas member and live in New York City, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland or Orange Counties.
    
    You also must be able to document self-employed or sole proprietorship status. Qualifying documentation includes one of the following:
    
    A signed copy of last year’s tax return (complete 1040 with Schedule C or Schedule SE) or
    
    A signed copy of last year’s tax return complete 1120S with Schedule K-1 or 1065 with Schedule K-1 (for partnerships with only 1 person working 20 or more hours) or
    
    A new business certificate, and SS-4 with EIN (Employer Identification Number), and a letter from a CPA stating all of the following: name, EIN, the date the business was effective, when and what type of income tax forms are expected to be filed in the next year.
    
    Please see "What is a new business certificate and EIN and how do I apply for one?
    
    *Note: there is no income level requirement that has to be met.
    
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    What is a new business certificate and EIN and how do I apply for one?
    
    What is a new business certificate and EIN and how do I apply for one?
    
    The activity of the production of art can be considered a "business" if the "activity is carried on in order to make a livelihood, in good faith." A new business certificate (form X-201 for sole proprietors only) is an official document that states you are conducting "business" or in other words, freelance work, as an individual under "said" name registered at the county clerk's office. An example of a business name could be Jane Doe Design. You may not only use your first and last name as the name of your business or include a word that denotes more than one person, ie. associates.
    
    The form can be downloaded from Blumberg Legal for a small fee of $10. The form must be notarized and taken to your local county clerk with proof of address.
    
    Establishing a sole proprietorship is the simplest type of business structure that can be formed and does not incorporate a business. However, there are important points that you should understand before filing for a new business certificate:
    
    You are the only employee
    You must report profit or losses on your personal income tax returns
    
    There is no separation between your assets and your "business"
    You are personally liable for any debts your "business" incurs
    
    You may call your local county clerk with any filing questions. Please visit NYCgov for contact information.
    
    An EIN is a nine digit federal tax identification number that is assigned to various business entities. You can obtain an EIN immediately over the phone with the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 Monday thru Friday 7:00 am - 10:00 pm EST or online at IRS.
    
    Please note that a letter from a CPA (certified public accountant)(on letterhead) is also needed stating all of the following: name, EIN, the date the business was effective, when and what type of income tax forms are expected to be filed in the next year if you wish to be eligible to apply to any HIP plan by submitting a new business certificate.
    
    Obtaining this documentation sounds alot more difficult than it actually is. Also, filing for a new business certificate in no way limits you from engaging in part/full time work.
    
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    What if I work part/full-time but also work as an artist?
    
    What if I work part/full-time but also work as an artist?
    
    You are still eligible to apply as long as you are able to document self-employed status by showing any of the acceptable forms listed in "What are the eligibility requirements for HIP?" *There is no income level requirement that must be met.
    
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    What if I just recently started doing freelance work?
    
    What if I just recently started doing freelance work?
    
    If you have just begun engaging in freelance work (and thus have no tax documentation to show this), you would still be eligible to enroll by providing the following documentation:
    
    A new business certificate and
    
    EIN number and
    
    a letter written by a certified public accountant(CPA) on letterhead that states your business name, EIN, and the effective start date of the business. The letter should explicitly state the type of taxes you expect to file along with the expected filing date
    
    (Please see "What is a new business certificate?") Obtaining this documentation sounds alot more difficult than it actually is. Also, filing for a new business certificate in no way limits you from engaging in part/full time work.
    
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    Can I change coverage at any time during the year?
    
    Can I change coverage at any time during the year?
    
    If you'd like to switch your current plan to an alternate HIP plan, you can only do so once a year during the renewal period. The renewal period for all Fractured Atlas HIP plans occurs in May with an effective date of June 1st for all changes, regardless of your enrollment start date.
    
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    How can I add a dependant?
    
    How can I add a dependant?
    
    You can add a dependant by logging in and downloading the HIP application. However, the entire application need not be resubmitted with tax documents.
    
    Please fill out the Subscriber/Member Enrollment form of the application and submit within 30 days of the date of the qualifying event (ie. Marriage, Birth of a child, Adoption of a child)along with appropriate documentation, ie. marriage certificate, birth certificate, and so forth.
    
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    How can I locate providers?
    
    How can I locate providers?
    
    Please visit HIP.
    
    Click member and enter HIP Id card(click non-member if you're not a current enrollee)to search for hospitals or specialists. (When searching for doctors, you should search under specialists in order to receive accurate search results. On the website, most doctors are listed under the category of specialists as opposed to PCPs (Primary Care Physicians.) You can later under the specialty of Family Practice,General Practice,Internal Medicine, or Preventive Medicine).
    
    Select the appropriate plan: HIP Select PPO or HIP Prime. Select the network: Prime. The network is Prime for all 3 plans available through Fractured Atlas.
    
    You can then further narrow your search for doctors by name, type of specialty city & state, zip-code, gender, etc.
    
    Still having trouble? You can call HIP directly at 1-800-HIP-Talk to search for providers in your area over the phone.
    
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    What is HIP's customer service number?
    
    What is HIP's customer service number?
    
    You may call HIP directly with any questions at 1-800-HIP-Talk.
    
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    How do I enroll?
    
    How do I enroll?
    
    You must be logged into the Fractured Atlas website to be able to download the HIP application on the Healthcare page.
    
    Your complete application along with the first two months premium must be received by the 10th of the current month in order to have an effective start date of the 1st of the following month.
    
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    How long does it take to receive my materials?
    
    How long does it take to receive my materials?
    
    You can expect to receive materials within 3-4 weeks after your application has been processed by HIP. If you haven't received your ID card yet, you technically can take advantage of plan benefits on the effective start date of coverage. If need to see a doctor, providers can verify your eligibility by using your social security number with the numbers "01" tacked on to the end.
    
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    Do I have to choose a Primary Care Physician on the HIP application?
    
    Do I have to choose a Primary Care Physician on the HIP application?
    
    No, designating a PCP is not required when submitting an application.
    
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    How do I terminate?
    
    How do I terminate?
    
    In order to terminate, you must submit a request in writing including the following: date, name, social security number, effective date of termination (which must always be the last day of the month), and signature. Fax the letter to Fractured Atlas at 212-277-8025.
    
    A request for termination must be received no later than the 1ST of the effective month of termination. For instance, a request for termination as of August 31st, must be received no later than August 1st.
    
    Terminations cannot be made retroactively and we are unable to issue refunds for coverage.
    
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