Massachusetts Health & Accident Insurance Practice Exam

How long can COBRA coverage last for an employee who is disabled?

1. 12 months

2. 18 months

3. 29 months

4. 36 months

The correct answer is: 29 months

COBRA, or the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, allows eligible employees and their dependents to continue their group health insurance coverage for a limited period after certain qualifying events, such as job loss, reduction of hours, or disability. When an employee is disabled, COBRA coverage can be extended beyond the standard 18 months. Specifically, if the Social Security Administration determines that the employee is disabled at any point during the first 60 days of COBRA coverage, they may qualify for an extension of up to 29 months. This extension applies not only to the disabled employee but also to any covered family members. The 29-month coverage period provides essential support, allowing individuals who are unable to work due to a disability to maintain their health insurance while they transition to other forms of coverage or recovery. In contrast, the standard timeframes for COBRA coverage without a disability remain at 18 months or, in some cases, 36 months for other qualifying events such as the death of the employee or divorce.