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COBRA continuation of benefits, cont.

COBRA qualifying events

EMPLOYEE COBRA BENEFITS
Qualifying Events Length of Time COBRA Available
Termination of employment 18 months (29 months for a person who qualifies for
(unless due to gross misconduct) Social Security disability benefits)
18 months (29 months for a person who qualifies for
Reduction in work hours Social Security disability benefits)
DEPENDENT COBRA BENEFITS
Qualifying Events Length of Time COBRA Available
Termination of your employment 18 months (29 months for a person who qualifies for
(unless due to gross misconduct) Social Security disability benefits)
18 months (29 months for a person who qualifies for
Reduction in work hours Social Security disability benefits)
You become eligible for Medicare 36 months
Your death 36 months
Divorce or legal separation 36 months
Dependent child loses eligibility 36 months

COBRA coverage may end sooner than stated in the previous chart for the following reasons:

■ Texas Mutual terminates medical coverage for employees.
■ The person fails to pay the contribution on time.
■ The person becomes eligible for Medicare.
■ A person who was totally disabled when the qualifying event
occurred becomes ineligible for disability benefits under the Social
Security Act. This will be the case only if the person is determined to
be ineligible after he or she has been continuously covered under
COBRA for at least 18 months.
■ The person becomes covered under another group plan.
When a qualifying event occurs, you must complete and return a COBRA
election to the COBRA administrator within 60 days of the later of:
■ The date you or your dependents would lose coverage, or
■ The date you or your dependent receives the COBRA election forms.

Employee Benefits Guide 25