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Standard Periods of Coverage

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) establishes required periods of coverage for continuation health benefits. COBRA beneficiaries generally are eligible for group coverage during a maximum period of 18 months for a qualifying event of employment termination or reduction of employment hours. Other qualifying events may entitle a spouse and dependent children to a total of 36 months of COBRA coverage.

 

COBRA Continuation Coverage
Qualifying EventBeneficiaryCoverage
Employee termination (other than by reason of gross misconduct) or reduced employment hoursEmployee, Spouse, Dependent child18 months
Employee enrolled in MedicareSpouse / Dependent child36 months
Divorce or legal separationSpouse / Dependent child36 months
Death of covered employeeSpouse / Dependent child36 months
Loss of "Dependent child" statusDependent child36 months

 

A plan may provide longer periods of coverage than those required by COBRA. Also, events that occur during a period of COBRA coverage may extend or contract the coverage period. (Click on "Extended Periods of Coverage" and "Contracted Periods of Coverage" on the left navigation bar.)

 

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Page Last Modified: 02/12/2010 9:47:25 AM
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