Divorce And Health Insurance Options
Last Updated on August 31, 2023 by Lori Pace
Divorce can be a difficult transition. One of the most important decisions to make is about your health insurance. There are many choices that you have to make. It can be overwhelming. But don’t worry. Here are the things that can help you understand your options regarding health insurance after divorce or separation.
It is important for you and your family to find the best solution regarding divorce and health insurance. It is important to understand your options. This covers short-term insurance, but also individual and family insurance.
How Will Divorce Affect My Shared Health Insurance Plan?
You will be removed from the plan if your spouse had health insurance that covered you. Your spouse will be dropped if you had a spouse-covered health plan. However, children will not be automatically dropped from a spouse’s health insurance plan after a divorce.
In all states, however, your employer won’t allow you to be covered under the ex-spouses’ health insurance after divorce. Keep in mind that your spouse may need to continue you on their insurance until the divorce is finalized. They are legally required to add your name back to their health insurance if they have already dropped you. Ensure you are aware of your rights and that you protect them during divorce proceedings.
You may be eligible for health insurance through a Special Entry Period (SEP), if your divorce decree is finalized. You must enroll if you require coverage after your divorce. Otherwise, you will need to wait until the annual open enrollment period at the end of the year to obtain post-divorce insurance.
Can I Include Health Insurance In A Divorce Settlement?
You can include health insurance in your divorce settlement if you are looking for divorce insurance. You could ask your spouse to offer health insurance for you or your children as part of the divorce settlement.
Your insurance company may charge extra if you are the one who provides health insurance for your family. To ensure you get the best health insurance for you, consult an expert on divorce insurance.
What Is The Best Health Insurance Option After Divorce?
After your divorce is finalized you will be eligible for a Special Entry Period (SEP). You have 60 days to search for and enroll in health insurance plans. Using eHealth’s online tools, you can search for affordable health insurance plans within your state. You must enroll within these 60 days. Otherwise, you will have to wait until the end of each year for the annual Open Enrollment Period to obtain health insurance.
There are many options for you to choose from, and each one has its own pros and cons. The right plan may be right for someone who has access to health insurance at work, but not for a single mom living at home. You might want to look into an employer-sponsored health plan, short term health insurance, or a market plan from the Affordable Care Act and COBRA.
COBRA
COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) is a good option if you’re looking for health insurance following a divorce. It allows individuals who are unable to afford their health care due to life events or sudden circumstances to keep their group plan. This can help you retain your current health insurance plan even after a divorce.
The downside to COBRA is that you have 60 days to decide if you want to keep your coverage. You will have to pay both your employer’s and your share of the premium. There will also be an additional fee.
Employer Health Insurance Plan
This could be a great choice if you have access to an employee health insurance plan. This insurance plan is partially subsidized through your employer. It can help you save money on your health insurance.
It could be the most cost-effective option, however, you may not be allowed to join at certain times of year. This means you might lose coverage for a while so you may want to look at other options.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan
An ACA plan is a good option if you don’t want to buy your own health insurance. ACA plans provide 10 essential health benefits. These include emergency care, mental health services and laboratory services. Some states might also offer vision and dental coverage.
It is also worth learning about the various levels. You will also want to learn about the different levels of ACA plans. They are broken down into metallic levels based on how much you expect to pay for medical insurance.
- Bronze plan will cover 60% of your average costs
- Silver plan will cover 70%
- Gold plan will cover 80 percent
- Platinum plan should provide coverage for 90%.
These options can seem overwhelming, but eHealth is here for you. You can rely on our licensed agents to help you find the right plan for your needs.
Short-Term Health Insurance
You may also want to look into short term health insurance. This temporary coverage can help you protect yourself against certain medical expenses while you search for another plan. It is affordable and may begin coverage as soon as you apply. It doesn’t offer the same benefits. You might not be able to stay with this plan for long. The coverage typically lasts 6-12 months depending on where you live.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Will Divorce Affect My Child’s Health Insurance?
Your divorce may not affect your child’s or children’s health insurance. Your ex-spouse may have health insurance that covers your child. This policy will continue even if you divorce. This applies to their separation health insurance. Your child can be covered under both the family and individual plans if you choose to get health insurance for your children after a divorce. Find out which health insurance plans you can have .
Can I Keep My Ex-Spouse On My Insurance?
Your employer may not allow you to keep your spouse covered under your health insurance policy after you divorce. Your employer might have to pay more money to keep your ex-spouse covered under your health insurance plan. COBRA allows you to keep your coverage from the previous plan. You have 60 days to decide.
Will My Health Insurance Plan Be Affected If I’m Separated But Not Divorced?
You can keep your spouse covered under your health insurance plan if you are not divorcing but are separated. But it’s okay to keep your spouse off of your insurance plan if you aren’t living together. You may be sent information about your insurance plan by mail. If you do not live with your spouse, it is important to keep them informed about any changes to your health plan.
A legal separation or limited divorce may be necessary before you can obtain a full divorce. You might need to go through a legal separation before you can get a full divorce.
