Can Adult Children Stay On Their Parents' Insurance?

Many laws surrounding insurance can be somewhat confusing, especially if you are wondering whether an adult child can stay on a parent's insurance or if there is a limit to age restrictions. Frequently parents and adult children wonder about this particular matter because it can impact their options for substance use treatment.

Finding information about how long you or your adult child can stay on insurance can aid decision-making regarding substance use treatment.

Laws Regarding Health Insurance Policies

Health insurance policies can change from time to time, and not all of the information you find online is always accurate. In general, and specifically, when financial struggles are an issue, health insurance policies are one of the first places parents look for to address substance use treatment for their children or adult child.

One of the first ways to find out if adult children can stay on the parent's insurance is to contact the health insurance company. You can discuss your particular plan with a representative from the health insurance company and address relative and pertinent topics regarding care eligibilities.

The Department of Health and Human Services will also have updated information about health insurance policies regarding how long an adult child can stay on their parent's insurance. Currently, an individual's coverage on their parents' health insurance expires at 26 years old. There has been debate over the past year on an individual's right to remain on the insurance until 31 years old.

In addition, many individuals can remain on their parent's insurance even if they get married, begin school, live in the parent's home, are not claimed as a tax dependent, or even adopt a child. As previously mentioned, individuals will cease to be covered by a parental insurance plan at the age of 26. Be sure to check with either the employer who provides the health insurance or the healthcare provider as some states may have different rules. 

A Hopeful Future for Substance Use Treatment Coverage and Health Insurance Policies 

Health insurance coverage is a comprehensive and complex issue, especially when you are already overwhelmed searching for substance use treatment. Having guidance can assist you in finding financial resources to help eliminate the stress associated with finding quality substance use treatment. There will be much discussion about health insurance policies during this process, and it is essential to understand that most policies are extraordinarily accommodating.

If an adult child has substance use problems in their life, their health insurance plan may be opened up to qualify them for options as long as they have not yet reached their 26th birthday. Due to the increased awareness of the crisis of substance use disorders, there are future discussions to possibly raise the age to 31, opening the door for more opportunities.

On a positive note, there are other laws and regulations to help you with the financial elements of substance use treatment coverage. There is almost no situation where young adults will not qualify for their parent's insurance as long as they are under 26.

More debates and conversations hope to bring about change regarding age restrictions in health insurance which will hopefully encourage younger people to find help with substance use treatment. If the powers that be extend the age to 31, the ability for more people to find substance use help will increase. Additionally, the awareness of substance use disorders and effective and affordable treatment will rise as well.

Options to Consider for Coverage and Substance Use Treatment

If you are wondering if your health insurance will impede your substance-abuse treatment, understand that there is hope from other outlets. You can look into the Affordable Care Act or the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which can help you find the right coverage for substance use treatment if you are apprehensive about your health insurance and the limitations on age.

Also, there are laws to help those who struggle with substance use disorder have access to treatment. Since substance use disorder treatment is more accessible, those who need the support can now find it.

It is just a matter of reaching out and contacting an addiction center to see how they can help you. Fortunately, there is help from various areas to help if you are worried about substance use coverage. Even with the current age restrictions in health insurance, alternative means such as disability or The Affordable Care Act offer hope to those looking to turn the corner to a better life. 

Treatment Is Crucial

Substance use treatment is not a subject taken lightly. Health insurance plays a positive role in funding treatment. More people than ever can now get help for substance use disorders. The more awareness the public has regarding health insurance can play a role in helping those with substance use, and the eligible age for coverage seems to be on the rise.

However, if you are looking for help for substance use treatment and want to know more about the coverage options, the best way to get the most information is to talk to a substance use disorder specialist.

The Forge Recovery Center has many compassionate team members to help you understand what is possible for you and your loved one. Additionally, if you have an adult child struggling with substance use disorder, hope and help are available, regardless of age. Reach out to us for more information.