What is the maximum age for coverage of dependent children under health insurance policies?

Under health insurance policies, the maximum age for coverage of dependent children is typically 26 years. This provision is part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which allows young adults to remain on their parent's health insurance plan until they reach the age of 26. This rule is designed to provide continued insurance coverage for young people as they transition from school to the workforce and manage their own health care needs.

Coverage up to age 26 is significant because it supports young adults during a critical time in their lives when they may not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance or may be pursuing further education. This age limit applies regardless of marital status, financial dependence, or eligibility for other employer-sponsored plans, ensuring greater access to health coverage for this demographic.

The other options—18 years, 21 years, and 24 years—represent ages that are lower than the current requirement set by the ACA and do not align with the federally mandated policies that have been established to protect young adults' access to health insurance.