COBRA - Continuation of Health Insurance Coverage

COBRA - Continuation of Health Insurance Coverage for you and your dependents A Federal law known as COBRA (Public Law 99-272-Title XXII) allows employees and dependents to continue health insurance coverage for up to 36 months, by paying the full group premium plus 2% administrative charge, in the following circumstances:

1. The employee terminates employment and is not covered under any other group health plan, including Medicare. The Employee Benefits Division will automatically send information to the employee’s home address after employment terminates. The employee must apply for COBRA coverage within 60 days of losing eligibility.

2. The employee dies: If dependents are not covered by any group health plan, they may continue coverage for up to 36 months.

3. The employee is divorced: The ex-spouse, if not covered by another group health plan, may continue for up to 36 months.

4. A dependent loses eligibility (e.g., over 26 for health insurance only): The dependent, if not covered by any other group health plan, may continue coverage for up to 36 months. Your dependent may be eligible for the Young Adult Option Plan.

If you are represented by a union, you should contact the union Benefit Fund for information on continuing union benefit programs.