How Long Can Health Insurance Lapse? 
A health insurance policy lapses when the premium owed is not submitted to the carrier by the designated due date . When this happens , your plan is no longer providing coverage . There 's generally a grace period -LRB- e.g. 30 days -RRB- for late premium payments . In the event the grace period expires , you would generally purchase a new policy . Under the new Affordable Care Act , health plans are guaranteed-issue - meaning you can not be declined for any pre-existing condition or other health-related reason . I highly recommend consulting with an independent agent/broker to review your plan options . 