According to federal regulations and under certain conditions, the employee and/or dependents may continue medical and life insurance coverage by paying the plan premium after eligibility ends. The conditions known as “qualifying events” are as follows:
- Employee
- Termination of employment.
- Reduction of regular working hours to less than full-time.
- Dependent
- The employee dies.
- Marriage between employee and covered spouse is dissolved.
- Employee becomes eligible for Medicare.
- A child ceases to qualify as a dependent.
The length of time an employee or dependent qualifies for COBRA varies so the employee should check with the Payroll/Benefits Specialist for current timelines and conditions.