Why Does My Health Coverage End When I Turn 18?
If you are about to turn 18, you must ensure that your expected health coverage will remain active. Most parents think that their children’s health coverage will continue once they turn 18 if the children are still covered under their parents’ health plans. However, this is not always the case.
Who Remains Covered Under a Parent’s Health Plan Until 26?
Specific Requirements:
– Children are covered until age 26 under any parent’s group or individual health insurance plan.
– Health coverage includes all qualified health plans (QHPs) that are offered on the Health Insurance Marketplace and plans purchased outside the Marketplace.
– The child must be unmarried, not claimed as a tax dependent by another person, and not eligible for other health insurance coverage (such as employer-sponsored coverage).
– If you are under 26 and lose coverage under one parent’s plan due to a qualifying event such as marriage, you can enroll in your own health plan through the Marketplace or outside the Marketplace.
What are the Circumstances When Coverage Might End at 18?
– If you are covered by your parent’s employer-sponsored health plan and your parent loses their job or changes to a job that does not offer dependent coverage.
– If you are covered by your parent’s individual health insurance plan and your parent drops the coverage or changes to a plan that does not cover adult children.
– If you turn 19 and are no longer a full-time student, you may lose coverage under your parent’s plan.
What are the Options for Health Coverage After Age 18?
If you are no longer covered under your parent’s health plan, you have several options for obtaining health coverage:
Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance:
– If you are working, you may be eligible for health insurance through your employer.
Individual Health Insurance:
– This can be purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace or outside the Marketplace.
Medicaid:
– Medicaid is a government health insurance program for low-income individuals and families.
CHIP:
– CHIP is a government health insurance program for children and young adults who do not qualify for Medicaid.
Remember, it is vital to prepare for the possibility of your health coverage ending when you turn 18. Research your options and explore the various ways to obtain health coverage to ensure you have continued health protection. If you need help, contact a licensed health insurance agent for expert guidance.
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