In a divorce, the responsibility for paying health insurance can vary depending on the specific circumstances and agreements reached by the parties involved. Generally, there are a few different scenarios that can occur:
1. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance: If one spouse has employer-sponsored health insurance coverage, they may be required to continue providing coverage for the other spouse and any dependents. This is typically done through a process called COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act), which allows the non-employee spouse to continue coverage for a certain period of time after the divorce. However, the non-employee spouse will usually be responsible for paying the premiums themselves.
2. Individual Health Insurance: If neither spouse has access to employer-sponsored health insurance, they may need to obtain individual health insurance coverage. In this case, each spouse would be responsible for obtaining their own coverage and paying their own premiums.
3. Court-Ordered Health Insurance: In some cases, a court may order one spouse to provide health insurance coverage for the other spouse and any dependents as part of the divorce settlement. This can be done through a court order or as part of a divorce agreement.
It's important to note that the specific laws and regulations regarding health insurance in divorce can vary by jurisdiction. It's always best to consult with a qualified attorney or legal professional to understand your rights and responsibilities in your specific situation.