Survey of States with "Extra" Dependent Coverage
In light of New York's recent adoption of coverage for individuals up to age-29, I thought it would be worthwhile to consider what other states have passed similar laws. This is by no means intended to cover all of the specifics of each state, but I thought it was interesting to see the number of states that provide some insurance extension options to adult children.
- Colorado: Adult can be eligible until the 25th birthday
- Connecticut: Coverage up to age 26
- Delaware: until they turn 24
- Florida: up to age 25
- Idaho: also until age 25
- Illinois: until age 26, unless they are veterans and then to age 30
- Indiana: until age 24
- Iowa: under age 25
- Maine: up to age 25
- Maryland: also up to age 25
- Massachusetts: age 25 again
- Minnesota: unmarried children up to age 25
- Montana: age 25
- New Hampshire: until age 26
- New Jersey: until age 30
- New Mexico: age 25
- Oregon: age 23
- Pennsylvania: Age 29
- Rhode Island: age 25
- South Dakota: until their 29th birthday
- Texas: up to their 25th birthday
- Utah: until their 26th birthday
- Virginia: under 25
- Washington: up until age 25
Each of these states have specific rules for eligibility and age is not the only requirements. Most require children to be unmarried, and some do have residency restrictions. However, it does appear that all of these rules apply to insured policies issued specifically in those states, so self-insured or self-funded plans would not be impacted. State rules vary with respect to whether an employer is required to provide the extension, has an option, or if it is strictly a requirement on the part of the insurance company.
So, in sum, don't assume that children automatically age off of the plan if they are "of age" and not a full time student. Check with your benefit professional (or your attorney) to confirm that you are offering appropriate coverage to adult children.
