Understanding Dependent Coverage Limits and Qualifying Life Events
Coverage under a medical plan for dependents officially ends on the last day of the month following the dependent’s 26th birthday. For example, if a dependent turns 26 on January 10, their coverage would end on January 31 of the following year.
Additionally, the loss of coverage when a dependent ages out is considered a qualifying life event. This means that the dependent may be eligible for options such as COBRA continuation coverage or enrollment in a health insurance marketplace during a special enrollment period.
Key Points:
- End of Coverage: Coverage ends on the last day of the month after the dependent turns 26.
- Qualifying Life Event: The loss of coverage triggers a qualifying life event, allowing for COBRA or marketplace enrollment.
Understanding these details can help in planning for health coverage transitions as dependents reach the age limit.