Why Health Sharing Plans Have Waiting Periods (And Why It Matters)

Feb 11, 2026 • 11 min read

Health sharing plans impose 30–90 day waiting periods for new members and 12–24 month exclusions for pre-existing conditions because they operate as member-funded communities rather than insured products with regulatory reserves.

As of Feb 2026, these waiting periods mean you cannot immediately claim maternity, mental health, or chronic disease expenses—a critical gap if you enroll during an active health crisis.

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