Can you stay on COBRA longer than 36 months?
Asked by: Germaine Johnson V | Last update: January 18, 2026Score: 4.9/5 (11 votes)
Can COBRA be extended beyond 36 months?
California Insurance Code (CIC) Section 10128.59 provides extension under Cal-COBRA for those who have exhausted their 18 months on federal COBRA (or longer in special circumstances) for a total extension that cannot exceed 36 months.
How long can someone stay on a COBRA?
While COBRA is temporary, in most circumstances, you can stay on COBRA for 18 to 36 months.
What is the maximum duration for COBRA?
You can collect COBRA benefits for up to 18 months. This may be extended to 36 months under certain circumstances. If your employer has 20 or more employees, it must follow COBRA rules.
How long can you be on Cal-COBRA?
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.
When Does COBRA Insurance End? : Personal & Health Insurance Tips
How long can you do COBRA after retiring?
Retirees may use COBRA Insurance For 18 Months.
Does COBRA have an age limit?
I am being laid off and am over 65. May I receive COBRA? And if no, may I receive COBRA for dental benefits since Medicare does not cover dental? Age is not a limitation for COBRA eligibility.
How often can you go on COBRA?
You May Only Use COBRA One Time For Each Qualifying Event That Stops Your Health Insurance. COBRA continuation lasts for up to 18 months (in some situations a dependent can continue for up to 36 months) and is available each time your employer-sponsored health insurance would end due to a qualifying event.
How long can I stay on my parents' insurance?
The Affordable Care Act requires plans and issuers that offer dependent child coverage to make the coverage available until a child reaches the age of 26. Both married and unmarried children qualify for this coverage.
What is the COBRA loophole?
If you decide to enroll in COBRA health insurance, your coverage will be retroactive, meaning it will apply to any medical bills incurred during the 60-day decision period. This loophole can save you money by avoiding premium payments unless you actually need care during this time.
When can COBRA end early?
COBRA provides that your continuation coverage may be terminated before the end of the maximum coverage period for any of the following reasons: The Plan Sponsor no longer provides group health coverage to any of its employees. Any required premium for continuation coverage is not paid in full on time.
Why is COBRA so expensive?
COBRA coverage is not cheap.
Why? Because you're now responsible for paying your portion of your health insurance: The cost your employer contributed to your premium, in addition to the 2% service fee on the cost of your insurance.
What happens if I turn 65 while on COBRA?
In addition, a COBRA carrier may be able to bill you for any benefits paid by mistake when Medicare should have paid first. If you're already on COBRA when you become eligible for Medicare, you will lose your COBRA benefits and none of this applies to you.
Can I stay on COBRA when I get a new job?
You can keep COBRA coverage when you get a new job, even if your new employer offers you a new health plan. However, COBRA will likely be much more expensive. You may want to keep COBRA coverage if your new employer's health plan doesn't include your preferred healthcare providers.
How much does COBRA cost per month?
The average monthly cost of COBRA Insurance premiums ranges from $400 to $700 per individual.
Can I go to the doctor while waiting for a COBRA?
You will be reimbursed for any medical bills that you pay out-of-pocket during this period. Contact the plan administrator for more information on filing a claim for benefits. Complete plan rules are available from the employer's benefits offices.
At what age do you get kicked off your parents insurance?
You lose your parents' health insurance in California when you turn 26. If you've aged off your parents' health plan, you may wonder what options you have.
Can I move out and still be on my parents insurance?
Yes, you are eligible to be covered on your parent's plan up to age 26 regardless of where you live. However, your parent's health plan probably has a network of participating providers and it may be difficult for you to find in-network care when you are living in another state.
What happens when your child turns 26?
When your child reaches age 26, he or she is no longer eligible to be covered under your health benefits enrollment, unless your child is incapable of self-support because of a mental or physical disability that existed before age 26.
Can you extend COBRA after 36 months?
Must occur within 18- or 29-month coverage period. Must be reported within 60 days of the second qualifying event. Qualified beneficiary must report event to COBRA administrator on the Notice to Extend COBRA Continuation Coverage. Never extend coverage beyond 36 months from original COBRA eligibility date.
How long can someone stay on COBRA?
You can stay on COBRA for 18 or 36 Months
COBRA coverage generally lasts 18 months for the employee. However, dependents on the plan, such as a spouse or children, can be eligible for up to 36 months of coverage under certain circumstances, like divorce or the death of the covered employee.
Is COBRA cheaper than marketplace?
Both COBRA and ACA Marketplace plans have their advantages. COBRA lets you keep your exact employer-based plan but is often more expensive. ACA plans may be more affordable, especially with subsidies, but require choosing a new plan. The best choice depends on your financial situation and healthcare needs.
What is the highest age of a COBRA?
Estimates of the life span of the Indian cobra vary between about 20 and 30 years. Indian cobras have few predators. Some animals, such as eagles, crocodiles, wild boars, and mongooses, may steal and consume their eggs.
At what age are you no longer a dependent for health insurance?
You can stay on a parent's plan until you turn 26
Once you're on a parent's job-based plan, in most cases you can stay on it until you turn 26. Generally, you can join a parent's plan and stay on until you turn 26 even if you: Get married.
What is the average lifespan of a COBRA?
The average lifespan of a wild king cobra is about 20 years.