Is canceling COBRA considered a qualifying event?
Asked by: Dr. Santa Mueller MD | Last update: August 16, 2025Score: 4.2/5 (64 votes)
Does cancelling COBRA count as a qualifying event?
However, you won't qualify if you decide to end COBRA early and are paying the full benefit cost yourself. You also don't qualify if you lose your COBRA coverage because you didn't pay your premiums. Remember, you don't need a special enrollment period if you voluntarily end COBRA during open enrollment.
Is resignation a COBRA qualifying event?
For “covered employees,” the only qualifying event is termination of employment (whether the termination is voluntary or involuntary) including by retirement, or reduction of employment hours. In that case, COBRA lasts for eighteen months.
What is not a COBRA qualifying event?
Coverage provided under the FMLA is not COBRA coverage, and taking FMLA leave is not a qualifying event under COBRA.
What happens if you cancel COBRA?
After you stop your COBRA insurance, your former employer should send you a letter affirming the termination of that health insurance. You should then receive a certificate of credible coverage for the length of time, you were on the plan.
What is a COBRA Qualifying Event
Is losing COBRA a qualifying life event?
Losing COBRA Benefits
Here's the good news: Rolling off of COBRA coverage is a qualifying event that opens a special enrollment period for you to purchase your own health coverage. And you'll have more options, flexibility and control of your health plan outside of COBRA with an individual health insurance plan.
Do you qualify for COBRA if you quit?
Whether you quit, get fired or are laid off, you may be able to choose your former employer's health plan under a federal law called COBRA. That stands for Consolidated Omnibus Reconciliation Act. It's available if: You were enrolled in an employer-sponsored medical, dental or vision plan.
What are the 7 COBRA qualifying events?
The seven COBRA qualifying events that allow individuals to maintain their employer-sponsored health insurance include termination of employment for reasons other than gross misconduct, reduction in the number of work hours, divorce or legal separation from the covered employee, the covered employee becoming entitled ...
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.
Which of the following would not be a qualifying event under COBRA?
Under COBRA, the event that does NOT qualify for continued health coverage is gross misconduct. This means if an employee is terminated for gross misconduct, they are not eligible for COBRA benefits. The correct answer is option C: Gross misconduct.
Can I sue my employer for not offering COBRA?
The employees along with the beneficiaries have the right to sue to cover the medical expenses that would have taken place when the COBRA should have been offered.
Is resigning a qualifying event?
A change in employment status — whether voluntary or involuntary (laid off, dismissed, resigned, quit or retired) — is another qualifying life event. If you've experienced a job change, call the phone number on your member ID card to learn your options. COBRA may be one of the options you may consider.
What happens if I elect COBRA but don't pay?
There is no grace period if you're late paying your initial COBRA premium payment. 3 If it isn't paid on time (ie, within 45 days of electing COBRA), you lose your right to have COBRA coverage; you'll have to find other health insurance options or you'll be uninsured.
What are examples of a qualifying event?
- Gaining a dependent or becoming a dependent through birth or adoption.
- Getting married.
- Applicant or dependent lost minimum essential coverage due to termination or change in employment status.
- Cessation of an employer's contribution toward an employee or dependents coverage.
Can I switch from COBRA to private insurance?
You can only drop COBRA and sign up for a Marketplace plan and premium tax credits during Open Enrollment. You will have to drop your COBRA coverage effective on the date your new Marketplace plan coverage begins.
What are the disadvantages of COBRA coverage?
- COBRA can be expensive, especially compared to the premiums you were paying before your qualifying event. ...
- COBRA does not apply to all employer-sponsored health plans—in particular, those organizations with fewer than 20 employees may have no requirements. ...
- Even if you get an extension, COBRA is only temporary.
Can you cancel a COBRA at any time?
You may voluntarily terminate your coverage prior to the last day of COBRA for any reason. There are three ways to do so: Terminate coverage on your online account. For instructions, see How to terminate coverage in your COBRA online account.
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.
What is the penalty for not offering COBRA?
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to adhere to COBRA rules can result in costly penalties. The Department of Labor may impose fines of $110 per day per qualified beneficiary for non-compliance with notice requirements, and the IRS can levy excise taxes for violations.
Is dropping COBRA a qualifying event?
No, stopping payment for COBRA coverage is not considered a qualifying event. Once you choose COBRA, that's your health insurance until another plan has been made available.
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 is a second qualifying event for COBRA?
Second qualifying events may include the death of the covered employee, divorce or legal separation from the covered employee, the covered employee becoming entitled to Medicare benefits (under Part A, Part B or both), or a dependent child ceasing to be eligible for coverage as a dependent under the group health plan.
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.
When you resign from a job, what are you entitled to?
These benefits may include severance pay, health insurance, accrued vacation, overtime, unused sick pay, and retirement plans. Companies aren't obligated to provide severance pay. However, many employers do. Line up references before you leave.