If a dependent ceases to be a dependent under the plan, is that a qualifying event for COBRA eligibility?

• A. Yes, it's a qualifying event for COBRA
• B. No
• C. Only if the employee dies
• D. Only if the dependent enrolls in Medicare

Answer: (A)

Losing eligibility as a dependent is a qualifying event because COBRA is designed to let someone keep group health coverage when a reason for losing coverage occurs. If a dependent ceases to be a dependent under the plan, their eligibility ends, so they’re entitled to elect COBRA to continue that coverage for a limited time. After the event, the plan must issue a COBRA election notice and allow an election window, with coverage typically available for up to 18 months (and potentially longer in some cases). Other events, like the death of the employee or Medicare entitlement, are separate qualifying events that affect COBRA in different ways, but ending a dependent’s status itself clearly triggers COBRA rights.