ACA Health Insurance: Understanding Coverage Options for Dependents in College

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides comprehensive health insurance coverage options for individuals and families, including those with dependents in college. Navigating the ACA can be complex, so it’s important to understand the specific provisions related to dependents. In this blog, we’ll address the questions raised in a recent post about adding a child attending college in Ohio to an Illinois ACA plan.

1. Can I add a Child Attending College Out-of-State to My Family ACA Plan?

Yes, you can add a child attending college in Ohio to your Illinois ACA family plan, regardless of their physical location. ACA plans cover dependents up to age 26, even if they are not residing with their parents.

2. Calculating Income for ACA Plan Pricing

When applying for an ACA plan, you must estimate your annual household income for the year. This estimate should include projected income from all sources, including wages, salaries, and investments. The amount of income you report will impact the premium costs and potential subsidies you qualify for.

If you are laid off and have no income, you can estimate your income based on unemployment benefits or any other sources of income you may expect to receive. You can adjust this estimate later if your income changes.

Additional Considerations:

Medicaid Eligibility: If your income is low enough, your child may qualify for Medicaid, a government-sponsored health insurance program for low-income individuals.
CHIP (All Kids) Eligibility: If your child is under 19, they may qualify for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provides affordable health coverage to low-income children.
COBRA Coverage: If your employer offers COBRA, you may be able to continue your child’s employer-sponsored health insurance plan for a limited period after you lose your job. However, COBRA premiums are often higher than ACA plans.

Conclusion:

Adding a child attending college out-of-state to an ACA family plan is possible. By carefully considering income estimates and exploring different coverage options, you can ensure that your child has access to affordable health insurance while in college. It’s advisable to consult with a licensed insurance agent or visit HealthCare.gov for personalized guidance and assistance with enrollment.