Question
What is the name of your state? CA
As many colleges do, my university requires that every student carries health insurance. The university automatically signs students up for health insurance (with a high premium of $650 per quarter, which is 10 weeks), with the option to waive this health insurance if you have your own.
In the past few years, I've always done a good job of waiving the health insurance. Last year, I forgot to do so. I then neglected to check my university bills and so didn't realize I was being charged, till this quarter. I tried to talk to the health insurance manager about waiving the health insurance from the past two quarters, but she rejected the request.
I admit that I was negligent, but I also feel enraged that I'm now asked to pay $1300 for health insurance that I did not need or use. I don't understand why universities are allowed to force enrollment in health insurance since, in my case, I've been waiving the health insurance for the past few years, and have not indicated to them any change in status related to that. What is the legal standing that allows health insurance be something that is automatic unless you opt out (repeatedly, every quarter, before a deadline)? No other product is similar to it, as I can see.
I appreciate any advice/explanations, and also any help people might have on how I might be able to waive the health insurance premium. I simply cannot afford this right now!
Answer
I don't see how you can put this on anyone other then you. YOU forgot to do the waiver. The fact that you didn't use the benefit is irrelevant; had you intended to sign up, but not used it, you couldn't get a refund then. You have to provide proof of other coverage BEFORE they will waive the student health fee; you did not, so you were charged. Not the university's fault, yours. What allows them to have this policy is the agreement you sign when you enroll.
Answer
You don't get to cancel your car, nor your home, or your life insurance, if you go a certain time period, but don't use the coverage, AND expect a refund. It doesn't work that way. Also, since health insurance is regulated by law, who at the university do you think had the power to waive your premiums?