Extending COBRA Coverage

While most COBRA beneficiaries qualify for an initial 18 months of coverage, there are specific circumstances where that period can be extended. There are two primary ways to extend coverage: Disability Extensions and Second Qualifying Events.

1. Disability Extensions (Up to 29 Months)

If you or a family member is determined to be disabled by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may qualify for an additional 11 months of coverage, for a total of 29 months.

To qualify for a disability extension:

• Timing: The disability must start within the first 60 days of your COBRA coverage.

• Determination: You must receive an official ruling from the SSA confirming the disability.

• Notification: You must provide Rocky Mountain Reserve with a copy of your SSA Award Letter within 60 days of receiving it, and before your initial 18-month period expires.

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2. Second Qualifying Events (Up to 36 Months)

If your spouse or dependent children experience a second qualifying event during the initial 18-month period, their coverage can be extended by an additional 18 months, for a total of 36 months.

A second qualifying event includes:

• Death of the covered employee.

• Divorce or legal separation from the covered employee.

• The covered employee becoming entitled to Medicare.

• A child losing "dependent status" under the plan (e.g., turning 26).

Note: The second event only qualifies for an extension if it would have caused a loss of coverage under the plan had the first event (job loss) not occurred.

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Summary of Eligibility & Deadlines

Extension Type	Total Duration	Requirement
Standard COBRA	18 Months	Termination of employment or reduction in hours.
Disability	29 Months	SSA determination; must notify RMR within 60 days of the ruling.
Second Event	36 Months	Death, divorce, or loss of dependent status; must notify RMR.

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How to Apply for an Extension

If you believe you qualify for an extension, please follow these steps:

1. Gather Documentation: Obtain your Award Letter (Disability Determination Letter) from the SSA or documentation of the second qualifying event (such as a divorce decree).

2. Submit Your Request: Email the documentation to [e-mail].

3. Review: Our COBRA department will review your documents and send an email response regarding your eligibility and new expiration date.

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Contact Participant Services:

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