Provisions of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) include the coverage of children until age 26. The SHBP will extend the coverage of children until December 31 of the year a child turns age 26.
Under the PPACA a “child” is defined as a subscriber’s child until age 26, regardless of the child’s marital, student, or financial dependency status — even if the young adult no longer lives with his or her parents.
Parents may enroll children who meet the criteria and who will be under age 26 as of December 31st in the year they are enrolled. A photocopy of the child’s birth certificate that includes the covered employee’s name must be submitted along with the application (additional supporting documentation is required for a foster child, stepchild, or a legal guardianship – see below).
For a stepchild provide a photocopy of the child’s birth certificate showing the spouse/partner’s name as a parent and a photocopy of marriage/partnership certificate showing the names of the employee and spouse/partner.
For a grandchild, foster child, or legal guardianship provide a photocopy of a Final Court Order with the presiding judge’s signature and seal attesting to the legal guardianship by the covered employee.
Additional Information
Additional information on coverage of children until age 26, please visit the State Health Benefits home page.