Can children stay on a parent’s plan until age 26?
If a plan covers children, they can be added or kept on the health insurance policy until they turn 26 years old.
Children can join or remain on a plan even if they are:
- married
- not living with their parents
- attending school
- not financially dependent on their parents
- eligible to enroll in their employer’s plan
How to get coverage for adult children
Adult child may be enrolled during a plan’s open enrollment period or during other special enrollment opportunities. The employer or insurance company can provide details.
Under-26-year-olds can be signed up directly in new Marketplace plans. Be sure to include him or her on the list of people to be covered.
Questions? Call 1-800-318-2596, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
More answers
Does it cost more to insure an under-26-year-old?
It depends. For coverage that covers any number of dependents for a set price, there may be no additional cost. If the insurance offers dependent coverage as an option for additional cost, the premium may rise when the child is signed up. The insurance company can provide details.
What if my plan doesn't cover dependents?
If your employer's plan doesn't offer coverage to dependents, then the plan doesn't have to cover your child under 26.
What if my child under 26 isn't covered at all?
Like anyone else who does not have minimum essential coverage, she may have to pay a fee. She'll also have to pay all of her medical expenses.
What if a young adult turns 26 mid-year?
Her coverage ends on her 26th birthday. She may switch to employer coverage or get a Marketplace health insurance plan. When her coverage ends she'll qualify for a special enrollment period so she can enroll outside of open season. If she doesn't get insurance in 2014, she may have to pay a fee. Because she is under 30, she may qualify to buy a “catastrophic” plan with a lower premium but a very high deductible.
What if my child dropped off my plan already?
During your next open enrollment period you can put her back on your plan until she turns 26.
What happens when a child turns 26?
The health care law requires insurers to allow young adults to remain on a parent's plans only until their 26th birthday.
Do I have to cover my under-26-year-old?
No.
Are there any exceptions to the under-26 rule?
There's one temporary exception: Until the 2014 plan year, grandfathered employer plans don't have to offer dependent coverage up to 26 if a young adult is eligible for group coverage outside their parent's plan.