Read This Before You Turn 26!

At 18, you are considered an adult, at 21, you can legally drink, and at 25, you can rent a car. Then you turn 26.

Turning 26 is a major milestone for people, and they don’t even realize it. Which major milestone? In the insurance industry, 26 means big changes in terms of having your own health insurance policy; it means that you are officially of the age that you can no longer be included in your parents’ policy and must have your own.

We know, we know. You’re still getting the whole “adulting” thing down, and now we throw this at you. But we promise we’ll make getting your own health insurance as easy and stress-free as possible.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you turn 26 that will help you with your future policy:

1. There’s a grace period. Luckily, you have a brief grace period after your 26th birthday to take action and apply for health insurance.
2. Minimum coverage is a must. If you are unable to find a policy that fits every one of your needs, you must at least obtain a policy with the basic minimum coverage to avoid a fee.
3. Shop around. Yes, you have a limited time window to find coverage before fees roll in, but you should remember to take your time (this means start looking early!) and explore all of your options to find the best coverage for your needs.
4. Try to understand. A rule of thumb when shopping for insurance is to be somewhat knowledgeable of the marketplace. By educating yourself with a basic understanding of health insurance, you can narrow your search down and find the best policy for you.

Turning 26? Contact us today with any questions you may have.