Health coverage when you are on your own

Medicaid for former foster youth

Young people who were in foster care when they turned 18, or at a later age their state set, and who had Medicaid then, can keep Medicaid until age 26 in that state. For those who left care more recently, other states also have to provide this coverage in many cases, so moving for college can leave it in place. The Medicaid agency in the state where you live now makes the decision.

Renewals still apply, and a missed letter can end coverage by mistake. Keep your mailing address current with the Medicaid agency, especially when you move between campus housing and a summer address. Ask whether your state renews this coverage automatically or sends you a form.

Medicaid by income and the marketplace

Students who are experiencing homelessness or are estranged from family can apply for Medicaid on their own income in states that cover people with low incomes. Rules for students, for people under 21 and for counting a household differ by state. Answer the household questions as they fit where and with whom you actually live, and ask the state agency when a question seems written for someone else.

A plan through the marketplace, at healthcare.gov or your state's own site, may come with tax credits that lower the monthly cost based on income. Open enrollment comes once a year, and losing other coverage or moving can open a special enrollment period.

Renewals still apply, and a missed letter can end coverage by mistake.

Coverage through your college

Many colleges offer a student health plan, and some enroll every student automatically unless they show other coverage. If you have Medicaid, ask the bursar or student health office whether you can waive the student plan and take its charge off your bill. Check, too, whether the campus health center accepts Medicaid or sees students for routine visits as part of student fees.

Community health centers see patients with or without coverage and set charges on a sliding scale by income. The homeless and foster youth liaison or the student health center can help you work out which route fits your situation.