Akron OH Child Health Insurance

Reader’s Question:

I am planning to file a divorce. However, I am worried about the many consequences including the health insurance coverage for my 2 kids. Any insights on this? I live in Akron OH.

Eric

Akron, OH

Good thinking, Eric.

It is not very common for people like you who undergo such an emotionally trying experience to even think about health insurance coverage for your kids…and that makes me think highly of you. And I very much agree with your line of thinking in that aspect. You need to prioritize your children’s welfare above anything else, despite these kinds of trials.

You certainly have rights to coverage in Akron OH if you had insurance before a divorce, and there are provisions in the federal law in the context of helping your minor children remain covered for health insurance. Is your health insurance is a group coverage under the employer of your spouse you intend to divorce, the employer may be required to continue coverage for you and you children under COBRA at group rate for as long as 36 months. You have 60 days to seek COBRA coverage after divorce, given you are eligible, and the law allows you and your kids to remain eligible for COBRA even if your spouse would cancel your coverage, anticipating your divorce. Though be aware of the exception to all COBRA rules in small businesses. Exception is applicable to group health insurance coverage through a small business that employs fewer that 20 people in that calendar year, which are normally not required to give you coverage under COBRA.