Do I loose my health insurance the day I graduate college or is there any type of grace period?
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Asked February 10, 2014
1 Answer
The answer to this question can depend on a few factors, such as the specific terms of your health insurance policy and the laws of your state. Generally speaking, if you have health insurance through your college or university, your coverage may end on the day you graduate or shortly thereafter. However, some policies may provide a grace period of several weeks or months to allow you to find other coverage. If you are covered under a parent's health insurance policy, you may be able to continue your coverage for a certain period of time after you graduate, depending on your age and other factors. This is known as "dependent coverage," and it may be available until you turn 26, even if you have already graduated from college. If you are no longer eligible for coverage under a college or university policy or a parent's policy, you may be able to purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. Open enrollment for ACA plans typically runs from November through December, but you may be eligible for a special enrollment period if you have experienced a qualifying life event, such as losing your previous coverage. It is important to note that going without health insurance for any length of time can be risky, as unexpected medical expenses can be financially devastating. It is recommended that you seek out and enroll in a new health insurance plan as soon as possible after your previous coverage ends.
Answered February 10, 2014 by Anonymous