How long is COBRA for loss of dependent status?
Asked by: Devante McCullough | Last update: October 18, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (26 votes)
How long can dependents stay on COBRA if an employee dies?
In that case, COBRA lasts for eighteen months. If the qualifying event is the death of the covered employee, divorce or legal separation of the covered employee from the covered employee's spouse, or the covered employee becoming entitled to Medicare, COBRA for the spouse or dependent child lasts for 36 months.
Does COBRA cover loss of dependent status?
Loss of Dependent Child Status
If a dependent enrolled in a health plan loses eligibility because he or she loses dependent child status under the plan rules, that individual may be entitled to COBRA continuing coverage for up to 36 months.
How does COBRA work for dependents?
Dependents. Dependents may enroll in COBRA for up to 36 months if: The dependent child marries or reaches age 26. The covered member dies (eligibility applies whether the member was working or retired at the time of death).
How long can you stay on COBRA coverage?
While COBRA is temporary, in most circumstances, you can stay on COBRA for 18 to 36 months.
How COBRA Act works | Benefit Administration
Can COBRA be extended beyond 18 months?
Consumers may also extend COBRA continuation coverage longer than the initial 18-month period with a second qualifying event—e.g., divorce or legal separation, death of the covered employee, Medicare entitlement of the covered employee (in certain circumstances), or loss of dependent child status —up to an additional ...
How do you keep a COBRA for 36 months?
Second Qualifying Event - If you are receiving an 18-month maximum period of continuation coverage, you may become entitled to an 18-month extension (giving a total maximum period of 36 months of continuation coverage) if you experience a second qualifying event that is the death of a covered employee, the divorce or ...
What is the maximum amount of time dependents can remain on COBRA?
Once your child "ages out" the child may be eligible for coverage under his or her own employer's plan, for special enrollment in Marketplace coverage or may be eligible to purchase temporary extended health coverage for up to 36 months under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).
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.
What happens when a dependent 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.
What is loss of dependent status?
Usually, the loss of dependent child status is based on the child reaching a specific age. Generally, after reaching this age the child is no longer entitled to the plan coverage that the child had while considered to be a dependent.
What is not covered under COBRA?
COBRA also does not cover plans that provide only life insurance or disability benefits, as those benefits are not considered “medical care.”
Can you drop a dependent from COBRA?
Generally, COBRA requires that an employee, spouse or dependent child be covered by the plan the day prior to the qualifying event. However, there is an exception in the regulation regarding spouses or dependent children who are dropped by an employee in anticipation of divorce or legal separation.
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 26 while on COBRA?
Turning 26 initiates a special enrollment period, requiring you to find new coverage. Options include COBRA continuation, short-term insurance, marketplace plans, or employer-sponsored plans.
What disqualifies you from COBRA?
Why would an employee not qualify to enroll in Cal-COBRA? The employee is enrolled in or eligible for Medicare. The employee does not enroll within 60 days of receiving the notice of eligibility from the employer. The employee is covered by another health plan.
What is the 105 day COBRA loophole?
So, if you maxed out the 60 day election period plus the 45 day payment period, you could actually go 105 days without paying for the coverage.
How long can I stay on 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.
Can you get a COBRA for just a dependent?
COBRA continuation coverage may be elected for only one, several, or all dependent children who are qualified beneficiaries. A parent may elect continuation coverage on behalf of any dependent children.
How much does COBRA cost per month?
The average monthly cost of COBRA Insurance premiums ranges from $400 to $700 per individual.
What is the age limit for dependents?
To meet the qualifying child test, your child must be younger than you or your spouse if filing jointly and either younger than 19 years old or be a "student" younger than 24 years old as of the end of the calendar year.
Is COBRA 12 or 18 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.
What is the average lifespan of a COBRA?
The average lifespan of a wild king cobra is about 20 years.
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.