Many students assume they will continue to be insured by their parents' health plan when they go on to college. Health Care Reform now requires group and individual policies to cover children up to age 26, regardless of marital or dependent status. Even if you live in another state, you can still qualify for your parents’ policy. This may be more economical than a separate policy IF you have younger siblings. If not, it may be less expensive to buy an individual policy. Call us and we can give you a quote, or click here for our quoting software. Also, be aware that coverage cannot be extended to your children if you should have any.

Most plans will continue to insure you if:
	You are less than 25 years old
	You are a dependent for federal tax purposes
	You are a full-time student currently taking 12 or more units

Be careful that you meet these qualifications at all times. If you should have to drop a class and fall below the 12-unit minimum, you are no longer eligible. Or if you are supporting yourself and your parents don't claim you on their income taxes, you may no longer be eligible.

Often this is not discovered until you have a major claim, and the claims department double-checks your eligibility. Don't get caught short! Either buy your own health insurance, or ask to continue on your parents' insurance as a COBRA participant, by paying the appropriate premium.

Attention Graduates
Most college students are covered by their parent's health insurance. Health Care Reform now requires group and individual policies to cover children up to age 26. This may be more economical than a separate policy IF you have younger siblings. If not, it may be less expensive to buy an individual policy. Call us and we can give you a quote, or click here for our quoting software.

Options for continuing coverage: COBRA applies for overage dependents if your employer has more than 20 employees. You have 60 days from the end of coverage to exercise COBRA continuation and can keep the coverage for up to 18 months. Generally, though, this will be more expensive than individual or temporary health insurance. Call us, and we'll help you make a comparison to find the very best health coverage possible.