Coverage for Dependent Children
A new 2009 law in Ohio mandated that employers offer the opportunity to parents to keep their children on their health plans up to age 28 after July 1, 2010. (Meaning that once the dependent turns 28, they are no longer eligible to be on their parents plan) This is more expansive than the age 26 requirement in the new federal law.
The dependent must the following:
1. the natural child, stepchild, or adopted child of the employee;
2. an Ohio resident or a full-time student at an accredited public or private institution of higher education;
3. not employed by an employer that offers any health benefit plan under which the child is eligible for coverage; and
4. not eligible for coverage under Medicaid or Medicare.
Please note that the older age child does not have to live with the parent, be financially dependent upon the parent or be a student. COSE is working with the Ohio Department of Insurance and insurance companies in order to implement this change as quick as possible. As more information is available, it will be included in COSE Member communications and the Grassroots e-News.
The Ohio Department of Insurance has a FAQ available here.