HCi is pleased to advise members that we’ve implemented changes that will now allow eligible dependent children to remain on HCi family policies longer!
HCi is increasing the maximum age of dependants to 31 years.
More importantly, we’re delighted to be one of the first private health insurers in the country to introduce these changes. As a not-for-profit health insurer, we recognise that many HCi members, and their adult children, will benefit from these changes.
Effective from 1 November 2021, HCi will raise the maximum age for eligible dependants from age 23 to age 31. Allowing adult children to remain on their parents’ private health cover for an extended period means they may be able to rely on financial support from their parents for a little longer. It should also allow them to build more financial security without needing to worry about health insurance.
The Government said that it considers this change will help provide continuity of care for younger Australians and encourage them to continue with their own private health insurance when they reach the age of 31, which is the age at which Lifetime Health Cover commences.
Who is eligible?
An eligible dependant is required to be the child of a HCi member (or of the member’s partner), and can include a step child or adopted child. The dependant must be primarily reliant on the HCi member for maintenance and support. They cannot have a spouse or be living in a de-facto relationship.
An eligible dependent child can be covered on a family (or single parent) membership until they turn age 23, regardless of their student or employment status.
Their cover on that policy can then continue between 23 and 31 years of age if they are studying full-time (ie a student dependant), subject to providing us with a Dependant/Student Declaration each year.
However, if they are aged between 23 and 31 years of age, and not a full-time student, then they must also reside with the HCi member to be eligible (ie a non-student dependant) on an extended family policy.
If a child isn’t an eligible dependant, then they will need to take out their own cover. HCi has a great range of products to suit a range of cover needs, including singles cover for young people. Providing they start their own policy within 60 days of leaving a family policy (or single parent), we’ll recognise any waiting periods they’ve already served under that policy.
Need to know more?
If you think you, or one of your adult children, might benefit from these enhanced rules, please email us at enquiries@hciltd.com.au or call us on 1800 804 950.
Disclaimer:
HCi used its best endeavours to ensure this information was accurate at the time of publication. From time to time, circumstances relating to the subject matter may change that may impact the accuracy of the information. This information is also general in nature and does not take into account any specific health or financial situation. Before making any decisions in relation to this information, you should consider your own financial and health situation and seek professional advice. Health Care Insurance Ltd ABN 43 009 579 088. A Registered Private Health Insurer.