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COBRA — Longer Priods of COBRA Continuation

Disability can extend the 18 month period of continuation coverage for a qualifying event that is a termination of employment or reduction of hours. To qualify for additional months of COBRA continuation coverage, the qualified beneficiary must:

1. Have a ruling from the Social Security Administration that he or she became disabled within the first 60 days of COBRA continuation coverage.
2. Send the plan a copy of the Social Security ruling letter within 60 days of receipt, but prior to expiration of the 18-month period of coverage.

If these requirements are met, the entire family qualifies for an additional 11 months of COBRA continuation coverage. Plans can charge 150% of the premium cost for the extended period of coverage.

A second qualifying event may also extend COBRA continuation coverage to 18 months giving a total of 36 months of continuation coverage. If a second qualifying event does occur, you will need to notify the plan. A description of the notification process should be described in your plan document.

Back to COBRA frequently asked questions