Health Insurance for International Dependents
Medical care in the United States is extremely expensive! You and your family cannot avoid high medical costs in the U.S. Not seeking medical attention when necessary can be very dangerous to you and your family's health, therefore medical insurance is a must. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as "cheap" medical insurance. The saying "You get what you pay for" applies to every insurance policy.
As an international student, you are covered under a group plan based on the number of participants. Therefore you have a very comprehensive plan that is relatively inexpensive (currently $849.00/ per year) for the benefits provided. Your spouse and children are not eligible for this student rate. A similar insurance plan will cost your spouse approximately $1812.00/per year with a $50 deductible per new illness. (Note: Your spouse would be eligible for the student rate if he/she registers for courses at Binghamton University) Your children can be covered for $984.00/ per year with the additional $50 deductible per each new illness.
Health and accident insurance is mandatory for all dependents of students or scholars in J-1 status, per Federal regulation. It is expected to become mandatory for all dependents of F-1 students soon. There is a tremendous risk in not insuring your dependents in the US -- and the possible consequences as a result. For example, J-1s are barred by regulation from extending their stay in the US if their dependents are not insured.