Children 18 & Older

Your dependent children remain eligible up to age 19 and then may continue eligibility for coverage from age 19 to age 25 if the child meets all of the following qualifications:

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Is unmarried;
Is a full-time (12 hours or more) student attending an accredited school;
Is dependent upon the employee for principal support and maintenance;
Is not eligible under any other group plan by reason of employment.

Illness or Disability

Your child also remains eligible for coverage if incapable of self-sustaining employment because of mental retardation, mental illness, mental disorder, or physical disability, and is chiefly dependent upon you for support and maintenance. If your child is 19 years or older and unmarried at the time of your initial application for coverage, you must provide proof that your child meets these requirements within 31 days. Your child will then remain eligible for coverage as long as he/she continues to be handicapped and dependent.

End of Dependent Eligibility Status

If your child is age 19 or older and not enrolled in college, or enrolled less than full-time, or if your child marries, dependent status is ended, and your child is no longer eligible to be continued on your coverage.

One coverage option for your child is under COBRA continuation provisions. Dependent children who were canceled from their parents' plan can continue coverage for up to 36 months by paying the full cost.

To request COBRA instructions and application, notify the Benefits Office within 31 days from the date your child loses eligibility. Even though you have 60 days to make the election, it is recommended that you elect COBRA continuation coverage early to avoid a disruption in your child's coverage.

Note: Coverage will terminate for dependents who turn 19 (and do not meet the criteria stated above) at midnight the last day of the month in which they turn 19. Dependents attaining age 25 will be covered until midnight the last day of the month in which they turn 25 or the last day of the month they are no longer a full-time student, whichever comes first. The employee must notify the benefits office when a dependent is no longer eligible for coverage and complete a Benefits Change Packet.