The length of COBRA coverage depends on the type of qualifying event that caused the loss of group health insurance. In most cases, coverage can continue for 18 or 36 months.
⏳ Standard COBRA Coverage Periods:
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18 months for:
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Termination of employment (voluntary or involuntary)
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Reduction in hours
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36 months for:
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Death of the covered employee
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Divorce or legal separation
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Dependent child aging out
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Covered employee becomes eligible for Medicare before one of the above events
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🔄 Extensions:
COBRA coverage may be extended beyond 18 months if:
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The qualified beneficiary becomes disabled (up to 29 months)
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A second qualifying event occurs during the initial COBRA period (extends to 36 months)
Note: These extensions require timely notification and documentation.
🧠 Key Point:
COBRA coverage is temporary and designed to give individuals time to transition to another form of coverage—such as a new employer’s plan or Marketplace coverage.