You should consider many factors when deciding on whether you will stay with your parents' plan or purchase a separate health insurance policy. Some of these include the type and amount of coverage you desire, your budget, as well as how well your plan meets your needs.
What happens if I'm 26 and still covered by my parents insurance?
You can remain on your parents' health insurance until you turn 26 if they have an individual plan or group policy that offers dependent coverage. This is especially important for young adults with relatively low incomes who may be eligible for a premium subsidy in the exchange, or for premium-free coverage via Medicaid.
However, if your parents' employer offers a plan that is grandfathered and does not require you to be covered under the parent's coverage, you cannot remain on the policy after age 26. If your parents' employer offers a plan that requires you to be covered under theirs, you should contact them to see what your options are.
How long can I remain on my parents' health insurance policy if I am married?
You can remain on your parents' insurance plan until you reach 27 years old if you are married and they offer a dependent plan. This is especially important if you have children.
Can I still stay on my parent's health insurance policy if my partner is covered through his/her employer?
Depending on your spouse's employer, you might be able to stay on your parents' health insurance after you marry if they have an individual plan or group insurance that offers dependent coverage. This is especially important during the open enrollment period in most states or if you experience a qualifying event.
Can I continue to be covered by my parents' health insurance after I move?
It might make sense to buy your own health insurance if your parents are in a state other than where you live. You can buy a policy through your own state's marketplace or you can shop for an individual plan from the federal or private exchange.
What if I want to continue my parents' vision and dental coverage?
The vast majority offer dental and/or vision coverage to dependents. It means you can remain on your parents' vision and dental plans as long as you have a child over the age of 18 who is either financially dependent, enrolled in school or lives with you.
Do I have to pay for my own prescription drugs and dental care?
If you have a student or dependent who is still covered by your parents' prescription drug and dental coverage, you can keep the same plan even after you turn 26. This is especially helpful if your parents' prescriptions and dental plans are expensive or hard to find in your new area.
How long can I continue to receive my parents' Medicare dental and vision benefits?
Your parents can continue to receive Medicare and other benefits if they are retired or disabled for as long their condition lasts. It is known as Temporary Coverage or TCC. If you are an employee of the government, then you have 60-days from when your spouse turns 26, to notify your Benefits contact and apply TCC.