In New Jersey, individuals have the option to remain on their parent's health insurance policy until they reach the age of 31. Typically, under most employer-provided group health insurance plans, coverage for adult children ends when they turn 26. However, several options are available to extend this coverage.
For those employed or enrolled in school, checking if the employer or institution offers group health insurance is recommended as it is often cost-effective. Alternatively, individual health insurance plans can be purchased through the federal marketplace at healthcare.gov, where subsidies may be available based on income.
Another option is extending coverage under the federal COBRA Act for 18 months post-26th birthday. In New Jersey, a more extended option known as New Jersey Dependent Under 31 Coverage (DU31) allows eligible adults to stay on their parent's plan until age 31.
DU31 provides identical coverage as dependents under a parent's plan but requires election and payment of 102% of the premium without any contribution from employers. To qualify for DU31:
- The parent must have a group health insurance plan with an insurer in New Jersey.
- Coverage that includes dependents must be active.
- The applicant cannot be covered by another group plan or Medicare.
- Marriage or civil union status disqualifies applicants.
Notably, DU31 does not require applicants to meet specific economic criteria or reside with parents. It also doesn't necessitate prior coverage under a parent's plan or proof of insurability.
Applications for DU31 should be submitted within a specified period around the applicant's 26th birthday or during open enrollment periods thereafter. Benefits can be obtained and re-obtained multiple times before turning 31.
For further details on DU31 nuances and application processes, visit [New Jersey's official site](https://www.nj.gov/dobi/division_consumers/du31.htm).
"Under most employer-provided group health insurance plans, on your 26th birthday, you, the adult child, become ineligible," states Stephen Eisdorfer from ACNJ Volunteer.
