Under COBRA, how long can dependents continue health insurance coverage after an employee's death?

Under COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act), dependents can generally continue their health insurance coverage for up to 36 months following the death of the covered employee. This extended time frame is intended to provide a safety net for surviving family members during a difficult transition period, allowing them to maintain access to healthcare as they navigate the loss of the primary insured individual.

The reasoning behind the 36-month coverage period for dependents stems from recognizing the unique circumstances surrounding the death of an employee, which can leave dependents in a vulnerable position. In contrast, other qualifying events, such as job loss or reduction in hours worked, allow for shorter continuation periods, typically 18 months, reflecting different needs and circumstances.

This provision ensures that dependents have a longer duration to seek alternative insurance coverage or adjust to their new situation without the immediate burden of acquiring new health insurance under potentially stressful conditions.