Private Insurance After Age 26

Private Health Insurance after age 26

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who are approaching age 26 may be able to remain on their parent's private group health insurance.

How to qualify:

1. The child must be unable to maintain self-sustaining employment due to the disability, and -the child may have a part-time job
2. Must be primarily dependent on the parent or parents for support and maintenance. and
3. Must submit proof to the parent’s health insurance plan of the child’s disability and dependency prior to the child turning 26.

Additional Information:

• It is recommended that the parent start this process several months prior to the 26th birthday so all forms and documentation are sent to the employer on time.
• The insurance plan may require the parent to provide proof that the dependency and incapacity remains on a continuing basis.

What happens if the parent changes jobs after the child is 26: The employer is not required to cover the child under its insurance plan. However, the parent should check to see if the employer would allow it.