We are not COBRA. For specific contract details about your current company policy, contact your health plan administrator.
Re: Extended Benefits for Spouses
In Reply to: Extended Benefits for Spouses posted by John Cornwell on April 15, 2005 at 16:04:25:
: My wife and I are near the end of our 18mos coverage with Cobra due to my retirement. I did read where Cobra coverage for spouses can go past the 18 mos to as many as 36 mos.
: I am told by my wifes physician she is entitled by Federal Law to 36 mos coverage with Cobra because she had to leave her job due mental disability.
: The employer is telling me she is entitled to 29 mos of coverage . . . how do I verify the law?
: Thank you for any help you can provide.
You can look on the DOL website (Department of Labor) at www.dol.gov. They have a section regarding frequently asked questions about COBRA.
COBRA can be extended from 18 months to 29 months in cases where Social Security Disability has been awarded. There are timeframes involved as to when you must notify the COBRA administrator. If not notified timely they don't have to offer extension. Also you can be charged up to 150% of premium, instead of 102%.
COBRA is offered for 36 months in cases of divorce, legal seperation, lose of dependent status. That does not sound like your qualifying event.
18 months is offered when the qualifying event is that your employment ends.