Disabled Dependents Age 26 or Older

Current Members

Coverage may continue beyond age 26 for enrolled children who are permanently disabled before age 26. Before the end of the month of the child's 26th birthday, provide MCHCP with:

1. The SSI Notice of Award from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating the dependent is entitled to disability benefits as of a specific date. The date must be before the child’s 26th birthday.
2. The benefit verification letter from SSA dated within the last twelve (12) months confirming the dependent is still considered disabled by the SSA.

If the documentation is not provided before the end of the month of the child’s 26th birthday, coverage terminates the end of the month in which they turn 26. They cannot be enrolled at a later date.

Newly Hired Employees

Newly hired employees may enroll disabled dependents who are 26 years of age or older. This option is only available by submitting an Enroll/Change/Cancel form during the new hire election period. The following required documentation must be submitted to MCHCP within 31 days of the enrollment.

1. The SSI Notice of Award from the Social Security Administration (SSA) stating the dependent is entitled to disability benefits as of a specific date. The date must be before the child’s 26th birthday.
2. The benefit verification letter from SSA dated within the last twelve (12) months confirming the dependent is still considered disabled by the SSA.

Disabled dependents age 26 or older cannot be enrolled at a later date, so timely action is required. Once approved, the disabled dependent may remain covered as long as the disability continues and all eligibility criteria are met.

MCHCP may request proof of continuing disability annually.