Couples have a lot to sort out when they file for divorce. One of the biggest issues to handle may be the issue of health insurance.
These discussions may focus not only on which of the two of you will pay for the kids’ insurance but also on the termination of coverage of a dependent spouse.
How do divorce proceedings affect health insurance?
A husband or wife’s ability to remain on their spouse’s health insurance plan generally ends with the finalization of their divorce. Some jurisdictions require employers to maintain coverage on a worker’s ex-spouse for a designated amount of time after the divorce’s finalization, though.
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) is a federal law that allows ex-husbands and wives an option for remaining covered under their former spouse’s health insurance plan for as long as 36 months after their divorce’s finalization. You may have to pay a hefty monthly premium to do so.
How does health insurance for the kids work after a divorce?
While deciding what you should do with your health insurance situation is sure to be challenging, brokering a deal with your ex over your kids’ coverage may involve some negotiating.
Judges often have the parent with the better health insurance policy maintain coverage on their kids. The court may count the costs associated with doing this toward a mom or dad’s child support obligation.
When sorting through the big issues, get experienced guidance
Living expenses here in Massachusetts are quite costly, especially if you have to foot the bills on your own. Taking on car, rent or mortgage payments, utility costs, childcare and medical expenses and other bills can be daunting as you’re trying to get your bearings after your marriage ends. A divorce attorney will want to know more about your expenses before discussing any spousal or child support demands you may wish to make in your Springfield case.
