How does my HMO know whether I am still married?

[Val Salva]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state?
California
Regarding an earlier post involving exes remaining on ones insurance, if my wife and I have a confidential marriage license how would the insurance company become aware of our divorce if we did so? I understand the issues of illegality and the severity of penalties for such. I just want to understand the mechanisms of how the insurers protect themselves.

[somarco]

During the enrollment process you sign a statement indicating you are electing coverage for eligible dependents. Many companies are now auditing their files and asking for a reaffirmation of dependent status, sometimes with accompanying documentation as proof. All of this is done on the honor system. You can choose to be honest or not. The consequences for dishonesty are not a lot of fun.

[rmet4nzkx]

Originally Posted by Val Salva

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state?
California
Regarding an earlier post involving exes remaining on ones insurance, if my wife and I have a confidential marriage license how would the insurance company become aware of our divorce if we did so? I understand the issues of illegality and the severity of penalties for such. I just want to understand the mechanisms of how the insurers protect themselves.

A copy of a confidential marriage license in California is only available upon request to the parties, it is not a matter of public record, however the parties may provide a copy if requested. A Divorce on the other hand is a mater of public record even if it is made confidential so there would be a record of it available. Many people think that a legal separation will allow them to keep their insurance, but as soon as it is granted that status must be reported, whereas only after the final decree with a divorce, so if there are no immediate plans for remarriage, then insurance may be maintained until the divorce is final.