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Length of COBRA Coverage

The federal COBRA law generally requires that coverage extend from the date of the qualifying event for 18-36 months. As shown in the chart below, the length of coverage depends on qualifying event. However, longer coverage periods may apply under state mini-COBRA laws.

Qualifying Event

Qualified Beneficiaries

Maximum Period of COBRA Coverage

Termination (for reasons other than gross misconduct) or reduction in hours of employment

Employee

Spouse

Dependent Child

18 months

Employee enrollment in Medicare

Spouse

Dependent Child

36 months

 

Divorce or legal separation

Spouse

Dependent Child

36 months

Death of employee

Spouse

Dependent Child

36 months

Loss of "dependent child" status under the plan

Dependent Child

36 months

COBRA Coverage Extensions


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