The law provides specific times for an individual to enroll (or to be deemed enrolled)
in SMI.
The initial enrollment period (IEP) is explained in HI 00805.015. If the individual does not enroll in the IEP, or if SMI enrollment is terminated,
the individual can only enroll in a GEP (See HI 00805.025), with coverage beginning the month after the month of enrollment.
EXCEPTION: Individuals with employer group health plan coverage may be eligible for an SEP if
they meet the requirements of HI 00805.265. Further, individuals may be eligible for an Exceptional Conditions SEP if they meet
the requirements of HI 00805.382.
If coverage under a State buy-in agreement terminates, SMI coverage continues on an
individual basis as though the individual had enrolled in the IEP, i.e., with no penalty.