Aging Off
They turn 26.
They still need coverage.
They are aging off. They're in school, starting out, between jobs, or working somewhere that doesn't offer benefits yet. Only the eligibility rule changed.
The rule
What actually happens
on that birthday.
Under federal rules, adult children can generally stay on a parent's health plan until they turn 26. When that eligibility ends, losing that coverage is a qualifying life event — which opens a Special Enrollment Period for individual coverage.
Exactly when coverage ends varies by plan: some run to the end of the birthday month, others to the end of the plan year. That detail matters, because it sets the clock on the enrollment window.
Confirm the specific date with the plan administrator. We'll work backwards from it.
The options
What's usually
on the table.
Which of these fits depends on where they live, what they earn, and what their employer offers — if anything.
Their own employer plan
If their job offers benefits, starting there is often simplest. Worth comparing the cost and the network before assuming it's the best option.
A Marketplace plan
Individual coverage with subsidy eligibility depending on income and household. A young adult starting out often qualifies for more help than they expect.
Private coverage
Available in some situations and states. Rules, availability and underwriting vary, so this one always needs checking for the individual.
A student plan
If they're enrolled, the school may offer coverage. Sometimes competitive, sometimes narrow — compare the network before committing.
COBRA continuation
Continuing the plan they're already on, at full cost. Expensive for most young adults, but the right answer when they're mid-treatment and need continuity.
Medicaid or state programs
Eligibility depends on income and state. Worth checking rather than assuming they won't qualify.
Availability, eligibility, subsidies and pricing depend on state, income, household and individual circumstances. This is general education, not a determination of what any person qualifies for.
Timing
Start before the birthday,
not after it.
The window is real but it isn't long, and a gap in coverage is much harder to fix than to prevent. If the date is coming up in the next few months, that's the right time to look.
The last word
You've spent your career
taking care of others.
Let us help take care of the family behind you. One conversation, no cost, and no obligation to change anything you already have.
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