How long may an individual remain on COBRA coverage?
• 18 months – When the qualified beneficiary is an employee and the covered spouse and dependents lose coverage due to the employee’s termination of employment or reduction in hours, the employee, covered spouse and dependents may continue coverage up to 18 months. The 18-month continuation period may be extended to a maximum of 36 months if a second qualifying event occurs during the 18-month continuation period. The extension does not entitle the qualified beneficiary to more than 36 months of coverage. • 29 months – A qualified beneficiary who is determined by the Social Security Administration to have been disabled within the first 60 days of COBRA coverage is eligible for the disability extension. The extension may be granted provided a determination letter issued by the Social Security Administration. • 36 months – When the qualified beneficiary is a covered spouse or dependent child who loses coverage due to divorce or legal separation, death of the employee, the employee become
