Is my 18-year-old highschool dropout still covered on my health insurance?

Question

My son turned 18 in March, and I just signed him out of public school (he was nowhere close to getting his diploma; whole different story). He will be getting his GED and attending community college in the fall. Being that he's 18 and not a student, will he still be covered under my medical insurance during the summer? I don't want to ask the insurance company because I don't want to clue them in that he's no longer in the school system if I don't have to. Anybody else been in this situation?

Answer 1

Since you don't want to ask the insurance company and most likely don't want to sift through the policy that is probably stuffed in the back of a drawer somewhere ; ),  I would first call the state you live in and see when they consider a child an adult.  In my state it is through 18 meaning on their 19th birthday I am no longer responsible for them.  The insurance company would have to at least cover your child to what the state law states.  

Like others mentioned, some insurance companies cover a child longer if you meet certain criteria.  

Good luck, I can only assume that this is only one of many worries you have.

Answer 2

most likely not- the child is covered until 18 unless they are enrolled in school.  Each insurance company has their own requirements.  There should be a number on the back of your insurance card.  You can call that number and they can verify your policy coverage.

Answer 3

My experience is that your children are covered as long as they are  under 23 and in school or live at home with their parent. So if he lives at him it should not be a problem.

Answer 4

Check your group plan.  The answer varies with the specific plan.

Answer 5

i work for an insurance company.. our guidelines are up to age 19 or 25 if a full time student.

what i would recommend, is a few things

1- ask your employer (HR)

2- read your benefit book, it has to be listed in there legally.

3- call the insurance company anonymously and ask.. sometimes this will work, sometimes not.

your best bet is going to be #1, but i would definitely obtain the most current benefit book for your policy and check.. sometimes HR people arent all knowing.

Answer 6

It depends on the insurance company.  I was covered under my parent's insurance until 23 regardless and 25 as a student.  That was with CIGNA, but I know it can vary from plan to plan, not just providers.