Does COBRA require the same coverage as active employees?

• A. No
• B. Yes
• C. Only for medical benefits
• D. Only if specified by the plan

Answer: (B)

COBRA continuation coverage must mirror what active employees receive under the same group health plan. If you elect continuation, you get the same benefits, the same network, the same deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket limits as the active employees, just while you pay the full cost yourself. The main difference is who pays—the premium you owe under COBRA can be higher because it typically covers the entire plan cost plus a small administrative loading, often up to 102% of the plan’s total cost. This is why the correct choice is that the coverage must be the same. The plan may change its overall structure for active employees, but COBRA continuation is designed to preserve the same level of benefits for those electing it, within the plan’s defined terms.