If you and your spouse are legally separated is the wife still covered under health insurance until which time they divorced?

In the United States, the specific rules governing health insurance coverage for a spouse during legal separation vary from state to state. Generally, when a couple is legally separated, the spouse may be eligible to remain covered under the other spouse's health insurance plan under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). However, the duration of coverage under COBRA and the specific conditions for continuation may differ from state to state.

Under COBRA, a spouse may be entitled to temporary continuation coverage for a specific period after the legal separation, typically ranging from 18 to 36 months. During this period, the spouse can elect to continue coverage under the employer-sponsored health plan by paying the full cost of the premiums, without the employer's contribution. However, it's important to note that COBRA continuation coverage is not mandatory, and the spouse must take action to elect coverage within a specific timeframe.

After the COBRA coverage period ends or if the spouse does not elect COBRA coverage, the individual may need to seek alternative health insurance options, such as obtaining individual health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or exploring other employer-sponsored health plans available to them. It's essential to consult with an insurance professional or the Human Resources department of the spouse's employer to determine the specific rules and requirements for health insurance coverage during legal separation in your state.