How does marital status affect underwriting in relation to dependent coverage?

• A. By determining who is eligible for dependent coverage
• B. By setting the base premium for the entire group
• C. By determining eligibility for the policy term
• D. By evaluating insurability for individuals outside the group

Answer: (A)

Marital status is used in underwriting to decide who qualifies as a dependent under the plan. In many group or employer plans, a dependent coverage option is available for a legally married spouse (and typically for children). So, if you’re married, your spouse can be enrolled as a dependent, while if you’re not married, a spouse is not eligible to be covered as a dependent under the policy. Children are generally covered as dependents regardless of the parent's marital status, within age and other plan rules.

This is why marital status is tied to eligibility for dependent coverage. It isn’t about setting the base premium for the entire group, determining eligibility for the policy term, or evaluating insurability for individuals outside the group.