For how long can COBRA allow individuals to purchase group insurance after leaving employment?

COBRA, or the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, allows individuals who have experienced specific qualifying events, such as leaving their job, to continue their group health insurance coverage for a limited time. The key feature of COBRA is that it provides temporary continuation of health coverage, rather than indefinite coverage.

Typically, COBRA coverage lasts for a maximum of 18 months following the end of employment for most qualifying events, although some circumstances can extend this period to 36 months, such as for dependents or in cases of disability. Therefore, the focus of COBRA is on providing a transitional period for individuals to secure other health insurance options, rather than allowing for indefinite insurance coverage after job loss.

Understanding these limitations is crucial for both employees and employers to ensure compliance with regulations and to manage health care coverage expectations appropriately.