When Is It Time for Your Kid to Exit Your Insurance? A Guide to Flying Solo

Feb 10, 2025

Watching your kids grow up is a rollercoaster of emotions—pride, nostalgia, and yes, even a bit of anxiety about when they should start handling their own insurance. Ready to help them take flight? Here’s when it might be time for them to exit your policy and start their own!

1. Turning 26: The Big Milestone Ah, the magic number! Most health insurance plans let you keep your child on your policy until they’re 26. But when they hit this age, it’s time to help them find their own coverage. Pro tip: Start the conversation a few months before their birthday so they have time to explore options.

2. Graduating from College Congratulations on their diploma! But while they’re busy celebrating, it’s time to think about their next steps in insurance. Many students stay on their parents’ plan while in school, but once they graduate, they’ll need their own health insurance plan.

3. Starting a Full-Time Job A steady paycheck means it’s time to start thinking about financial independence, including insurance. If their new job offers benefits, they’ll likely need to switch from your plan to their employer’s. Help them navigate this transition to ensure they’re covered.

4. Getting Married or Starting a Family Big life changes mean it’s time to update insurance plans. If your child is getting married or starting a family, they’ll need their own coverage. It’s a great opportunity to help them understand how to choose a plan that fits their new needs.

5. Moving Out and Living Independently When your kid decides to spread their wings and live on their own, it’s often the right time for them to take over their own insurance. From renters’ insurance to health coverage, they’ll need to handle it all.

6. Reaching Financial Independence When your child starts earning enough to support themselves comfortably, it’s a good indicator that they’re ready to manage their own insurance. Help them learn about budgeting for insurance and the importance of maintaining coverage.

Closing: Helping your child transition to their own insurance plan can be a rewarding step in their journey to adulthood. It’s not just about the paperwork—it’s about empowering them to take charge of their own coverage and future. Need guidance on how to make the transition smooth? Jim Pectol’s got the expertise to help you and your child navigate this new chapter with ease! Call Jim at (435) 592-9292