If you are entitled to an 18 month maximum period of continuation coverage, you may become eligible for an extension of the maximum time period in two circumstances. The first is when a qualified beneficiary is disabled; the second is when a second qualifying event occurs.
Is there a time limit on COBRA insurance?
Duration of Coverage Continuation Federal COBRA generally extends health coverage for 18 months. Individuals with certain qualifying events may be eligible for a longer extension (e.g., 29 or 36 months). Cal-COBRA allows individuals to continue their group health coverage for up to 36 months.
Can I cancel COBRA insurance at any time?
COBRA is generally month-to-month coverage and can be terminated at any time subject to applicable plan provisions. You can send a letter to WageWorks requesting termination of your COBRA coverage or you can simply stop paying premiums and your COBRA coverage will be terminated for non-payment.
Why did my COBRA coverage end?
Through no fault of your own, your COBRA coverage may be terminated early. The employer, from whom you are getting coverage, could stop providing coverage to all employees. The decision to stop providing coverage may be the result of a company closure, bankruptcy filing or just an evaluation of benefits offered.
Can an employer voluntarily extend COBRA coverage beyond 18 months?
An employer may extend the maximum COBRA continuation coverage period beyond the 18 or 36 months required by law. The employer should specify in the COBRA policy when coverage will be extended.
How long can you stay on Cobra health insurance?
The length of time you can stay on COBRA depends on your circumstances and what qualifying event made you eligible for coverage. In most circumstances, as long as you pay your premiums, you can stay on COBRA for up to 18 months. If a second “qualifying event” occurs, you may be eligible for longer.
When do you get a notice that your Cobra coverage is ending?
The notice will tell you your coverage is ending and offer you the right to elect COBRA continuation coverage. COBRA coverage generally is offered for 18 months (36 months in some cases).
Is the Cobra plan more expensive than other health insurance?
Yes, COBRA is usually more expensive than other types of health coverage. With COBRA, you get to keep your former employer’s plan, so you don’t have to switch providers or learn a new plan. However, COBRA plan members pay for all of the health plan costs. The former employer doesn’t pay anything.
When does Cobra coverage start for a qualified beneficiary?
Assuming one pays all required premiums, COBRA coverage starts on the date of the qualifying event, and the length of the period of COBRA coverage will depend on the type of qualifying event which caused the qualified beneficiary to lose group health plan coverage.
