Qualifying event

An event that allows an insured to change the terms of his or her coverage outside of the normal open enrollment period. Examples include the birth of child, a marriage, or a divorce.
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An occurrence that triggers an insured’s protection.

Qualifying service

Length of time an employee has to work for an employer before becoming eligible to join the employer’s pension scheme. Also refers to the service to be taken into account to entitle a member to a ‘short service benefit.