COBRA Disability Extension

Q.- A COBRA continuant requested an extension of coverage due to disability. The continuant provided a copy of the Social Security Administration's disability award. However, the COBRA continuant provided this information after the expiration of his 18 month COBRA period and wants the COBRA reinstated retroactively. Do we have to approve a disability extension?

A.- No. To qualify for a disability extension, the COBRA continuant must have:

• A COBRA-qualifying event that is termination of employment or reduction of hours;
• Been determined to be disabled under Title II or XVI of the Social Security Act (at any time during or prior to the 18 month COBRA period);
• Been disabled prior to the start of COBRA or at some time during the first 60 days of COBRA; and
• Notified the Administrator within 60 days of determination of disability or in no event later than the end of COBRA eligibility period.

In this case, notice was provided after the 18 month COBRA continuation period. No extension for disability has to be provided.