What Happens to Your Dependents When You Go On Medicare?

Signing up for Medicare is complex—but even more so if you have dependents to think about.

Whether you cover your spouse, children or both under your employer-sponsored health plan, you’ll need to figure out what their health insurance will look like once you’re covered by Medicare.

That’s because Medicare only covers eligible individuals and doesn’t extend overage to spouses or children like most employer-sponsored plans.

The good news is, you have options when it comes to your dependents’ health insurance. 

Health insurance options for spouses younger than 65

If your spouse is younger than age 65 and doesn’t meet Medicare eligibility exceptions, then they will need to purchase their own health insurance coverage until they’re old enough to sign up for Medicare. Coverage options may include:

• Employer-sponsored benefits through their own employer
• Private health insurance purchased through an agent or broker
• A plan purchased through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace
• COBRA coverage through your employer-sponsored health plan (note this option is typically very expensive and only lasts up to 36 months)

Health insurance options for children

If your children are younger than age 26, then they may be able to stay on your employer-sponsored health insurance plan if you’re still working.

If they’re older than age 26—or you don’t have an employer-sponsored health plan—private health insurance, ACA marketplace plans, or Medicaid (for low-income families) may be options.

Health insurance options for dependents with disabilities

If your dependents have disabilities, then they may have several health care options:

• Medicare is available for certain people with disabilities who are under age 65. They must have received Social Security Disability benefits for 24 months or have End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
• Medicaid is a state and federal program for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.
  Related: Is Your Beneficiary on Medicaid? Learn What it Means for Inheritance
• State disability programs are available in some states and may help people who don’t qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.
• Veterans Affairs Health Care is available for veterans with disabilities related to their military service.
• Private health insurance or ACA plans are available for purchase for those who don’t qualify for federal or state programs.

Related: Special Needs Plans: C-SNP, I-SNP, D-SNP…What You Need to Know

Want more? Check out our blog, Budgeting for Medicare Costs: 6 Tips to Help

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Colonial Penn is a private insurance company, not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or Medicare. Colonial Penn does not offer Medicare plans. The information provided relates to general insurance matters.  Insurers and their representatives cannot give tax or legal advice. This article is for general educational purposes related to insurance. Seek personalized advice from qualified tax or legal advisors.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice. For specific Medicare questions, visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227, TTY 1-877-486-2048).We strive for accuracy but make no guarantees. Policies and regulations can change. Verify information with authoritative sources and consult professionals where necessary.