Montana Municipal Interlocal Authority

Frequently Asked Questions

Allegiance Benefit Plan Management of Missoula, MT has entered into a contract with the MMIA EB Program to process claims for our membership. Most healthcare providers will submit claims on our members’ behalf, but if you do need to file a claim, it should be mailed to PO Box 5066, Missoula, MT 59806-5006.

For any services incurred prior to July 1, 2008 please submit claims to BCBSMT, PO Box 5004, Great Falls, MT 59403.

How does one obtain help with a medical claim?

Allegiance Customer Service personnel are available at 1-866-339-4308 to answer questions regarding benefits and claims processing. Claims inquiries can also be made via the Alligiance website’s secure services at www.abpmtpa.com/mmia.

When should a new employee enroll?

A new employee is eligible to enroll in the Program after the employee has met the employer’s waiting or probation period as determined by the employer’s personnel policy. Application must be made within 31 days of eligibility date; otherwise the employee would be considered a late enrollee and would not be able to apply for benefits until the next annual open enrollment period, which is May 15 through June 15.

What is a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing condition is a condition for which medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment was received within six months prior to the employee or eligible dependent’s effective date of coverage.

What is Creditable Coverage?

Creditable coverage is prior health care coverage that is taken into account to determine the allowable length of credit given toward meeting the pre-existing waiting period.

How does one prove Creditable Coverage?

A Certificate of Creditable Coverage is presented to the group health or individual plan with enrollment application. When a covered member of the MMIA loses health benefits, a Certificate of Creditable coverage is generated within 30 days of the loss of coverage. If the employee requests a Certificate of Creditable Coverage it will be generated within 24 hours of the request.

Is pregnancy considered a pre-existing condition?

Pregnancy is not subject to the pre-existing condition limitation. However, becoming pregnant does not create a special enrollment period.

What is a special enrollment period?

Employees and eligible dependents may enroll if certain qualifying events occur. Written application must be made within 31 days of the event. Such events include marriage, birth or adoption of a child, change in employment status or involuntary loss of coverage.

When does a newborn’s coverage begin?

A newborn is automatically covered at birth for 31 days. For coverage to be continued after 31 days, written application must be forwarded to the MMIA office.

Are dependents over age 19 eligible for coverage?

Dependents are eligible for coverage up to age 25 if the dependent does not have coverage through the dependent's employer.