Divorce is a painful time filled with complex emotions and upheaval. Along with the changes you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will go through is a change in your health insurance (Well, all of your insurance will change, but today we will look at your health insurance. You must sort this out immediately. Because stress places a considerable burden on everyone in your family’s health, you will need resources to take care of yourself.
Children
Your children’s health care coverage will be determined by the courts and included in your support and custody orders. However, until the divorce is finalized, their coverage will remain the same.
If You Receive Insurance Through Your Spouse
Often state laws are in place to ensure you retain healthcare coverage until your divorce is finalized, even if you are covered through your spouse’s insurance. Minnesota is one such state with these laws in place. Once your divorce is finalized, you will have to find new coverage. Some couples with amicable situations delay the finalization of their divorce until both parties can find insurance.
Your Options for Healthcare After Divorce
COBRA
Suppose your spouse works for a company with 20 or more employees. In that case, the federal Consolidated Budget Reconciliation Act allows you to pay for benefits through your spouse’s employer for up to 36 months after the divorce. Plus, you have a 60-day window in which to decide if you want to sign up for this option. Of course, COBRA is expensive, but it is better than no insurance.
The Affordable Care Act
Like COBRA, the ACA gives you a 60-day window to decide if you want to sign up for this option. It is far more “affordable” than COBRA if you qualify for it.
Your Employer’s Healthcare Plan
Divorce is considered a significant life event, which means you don’t have to wait for the normal open enrollment period to change to your employer’s plan.
Medicare
Premium-free Part A Medicare may be available to you based on your ex-spouse’s work history (if you don’t qualify on your own) after divorce if Your ex-spouse is entitled to Social Security Retirement or disability benefits and you:
- Were married 10+ years
- Are over 62
- Are currently unmarried
If you or your ex-spouse do not meet these requirements for Medicare, you may still be able to purchase Part A after paying the applicable premium.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a need-based federal program administered at the state level which provides health coverage for low-income families. Contact the Medicaid offices in your state to see if you qualify for benefits.
Talk To a Minnesota Independent Agent Today
Divorce is hard enough. Make it easier by calling us at Hermann Insurance. We will compare quotes to ensure you get what you need at the right cost. We promise to give you expert and unbiased advice because we are your neighbor and want you to succeed in business and life.
We want what is best for you, and we can start working for you as soon as today!
Request A Quote! Or Call us at (651) 674-4472.
