Short answer: Texas State Continuation coverage generally lasts up to 9 months, or up to 6 months after COBRA ends, but certain dependents may qualify for up to 36 months in limited situations.
The length of Texas State Continuation depends on whether federal COBRA applies and on the reason coverage was lost.
When COBRA does not apply, generally because the employer has fewer than 20 employees, Texas State Continuation serves as the primary continuation option. In these cases, eligible individuals may continue fully insured group medical coverage for up to 9 months after losing eligibility.
When COBRA does apply and the plan is fully insured, Texas State Continuation may extend coverage after COBRA ends. If an individual uses the full 18 months of federal COBRA, Texas law allows an additional 6 months of continuation, for a total of up to 24 months of continued coverage.
Texas law also provides longer continuation periods for certain dependents in specific situations. If a dependent loses coverage due to the death, retirement, or divorce of the covered employee, and the dependent was enrolled in the plan for at least one year before the event, continuation may be available for up to 36 months under Texas State Continuation.
Texas State Continuation applies only to fully insured group medical plans issued in Texas. It does not apply to self-funded plans and does not include standalone dental, vision, or other ancillary benefits.
Sources
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Texas Department of Insurance, State Continuation of Coverage
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/consumer/cb046.html -
Texas Insurance Code §1251.251–1251.257
Content history
Originally published: June 16, 2025
Last reviewed: January 25, 2026