We want to share an important update for some Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield members who use automatic premium payments on certain individual health plans.
A technical issue in the Individual business billing system, tied to automatic withdrawal deduction settings from November 2025, caused some automatic payment settings not to carry over correctly to 2026 renewals. Because of that, some automatic premium payments were not processed as expected for certain members.
This update applies to some Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield members using automatic premium payments.
For affected Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield members, that may have led to an account entering a grace period or, in some cases, a policy termination for nonpayment.
Outreach is already underway. Affected members are being contacted by text, email, or paper letter with an apology and instructions on what to do next.
If a member is still active or currently in a grace period, they will receive instructions to make full payment through the payment portal to bring the policy current.
If a member’s policy was terminated because of this issue, they are being given 30 days from the date of their communication to request reinstatement and submit full payment.
Members who need reinstatement assistance are advised to contact Health Plan Advisors (HPA) at 833-995-1475. Members who call the number on the back of their ID card may also receive help through Member Experience.
Members who want to continue using automatic payments will also need to reestablish automatic withdrawal deduction as their preferred payment method going forward.
If you expected an automatic draft and did not see it process, now is a good time to review your account.
What Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield members should do
If you use automatic premium payments, check your recent payment activity and review any text messages, emails, or mailed notices related to your policy.
If you expected an automatic draft and did not see it happen, it is a good idea to review your account as soon as possible.
If you received a grace period or termination notice, follow the instructions in your communication right away.
If you would like help understanding the notice you received or what next step makes sense, the HomeTown team is here to help guide you.
Unexpected billing issues can be frustrating, but a quick review now may help prevent a larger interruption in coverage later.
A quick billing check now may help prevent a larger coverage issue later.
Need help understanding your next step? Contact HomeTown Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. and we’ll help guide you.
