There’s a lot of contradictory info floating around about the upcoming dependent coverage rules — and it’s critical that your employees get the facts right.
One thing you, as the employer, are responsible for: Change all of your company’s printed and electronic information — enrollment materials, summary plan descriptions, benefits websites, etc. — to reflect the new definition of an eligible dependent.
Reform: Who is and isn’t eligible now
The new definition of an eligible dependent is a biological or legally adopted child up to age 26 — even if married.
Some key points to include in your materials:
- Dependents don’t need to be enrolled in school or be financially dependent on parents to be eligible.
- Working adult dependents employed at an organization that provides health coverage aren’t eligible for enrollment in parents’ plans.
- Eligibility doesn’t extend to adult dependents’ spouses or children.
- All dependents — including those previously dropped or whose parents have opted out of the employer’s plan — must be invited (in writing) back during your enrollment period.
Note: Employers whose plan years begin on or just after Sept. 23 must comply with the new eligibility rules this fall.
Info: A helpful FAQ can be found here.