How long can a Qualified Beneficiary keep COBRA?
• If a qualifying event is due to termination of employment, loss of coverage following leave without pay, or reduction in hours, a qualified beneficiary is entitled to a maximum of 18 months of continuation coverage. All other qualifying events entitle a qualified beneficiary up to 36 months of coverage. An 18-month continuation period may be extended to 36 months if a secondary qualifying event occurs during the initial 18-month continuation coverage period (e.g., divorce, death or loss of dependent status). A qualified beneficiary is never entitled to more than 36 months of continuation coverage.
Related Questions
- May a Qualified Beneficiary add a person as a dependent as a result of marriage or birth while covered under COBRA continuation coverage?
- If a Qualified Beneficiary waives coverage under COBRA, can they subsequently change their mind and elect COBRA coverage?
- For how long may the Qualified Beneficiary be on COBRA continuation coverage?
