Eligible Family Members
Ensure You Are Only Covering Eligible Family Members
You are responsible for making sure only eligible family members are covered under your benefits.
If someone becomes eligible or is no longer eligible, you need to update your coverage.
Visit the Qualifying Life Event (QLE) page for step-by-step instructions on how and when to make changes in UBenefits.
☑ Who Qualifies
- Spouse – Your lawful spouse. Common law marriage in Utah must be certified by a court.
- Domestic Partner – Must meet the University’s domestic partner eligibility requirements.
- Children under age 26 – Married or unmarried, including:
- Adopted or Foster Child – Eligible upon legal placement for adoption or foster care.
- Stepchild – Eligible if the child’s biological or adopted parent is your spouse or eligible domestic partner.
- Child under Legal Guardianship – Eligible with a court-appointed guardianship order granting full guardianship rights.
◯ Who May Qualify
- Eligible family members age 26 or older – May be eligible only if:
- Disabled Dependent – Requires approved incapacitated dependent certification.
- Full-Time Student – Requires approved student certification.
- Guardianship-Based Eligibility (Court-Ordered Required):
- Sibling – Requires a legal, court-appointed guardianship order granted when the individual was under age 18.
- Grandchild – Requires a legal, court-appointed guardianship order granted when the individual was under age 18.
⮽ Who Does Not Qualify
- Former spouse – Eligibility ends on the date the divorce is final.
- Former domestic partner – Not eligible once the relationship no longer meets eligibility requirements.
- Married child age 26 or older – Not eligible, even if the child is a student or disabled.
- Parent – Not eligible.
- In-law – Not eligible.
Important
- Only cover eligible family members: Make sure everyone on your plan meets eligibility requirements.
- Remove ineligible family members: If someone is no longer eligible, remove them in UBenefits. Visit the Qualifying Life Event page for steps.
- Act within 30 days: You have 30 days from the date of the event to make updates. If you miss this deadline, you may need to wait until the next Open Enrollment.
- No premium refunds: The University cannot refund premiums paid for ineligible family members due to IRS rules.
- Corrective action may apply: You may be subject to corrective action if ineligible individuals remain on your plan.
- Documentation may be required: The University may request documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or guardianship papers to confirm eligibility.
- Need help? Contact AskHR@utah.edu.