Which of the following is NOT listed as a qualifying event in the material?

• A. The employee’s birthday
• B. Voluntary or involuntary termination of employment
• C. Reduction of hours
• D. Death of the covered employee

Answer: (A)

COBRA continuation kicks in only when a event causes an employee or dependent to lose coverage due to changes in employment status or family relationship. A birthday does not cause loss of coverage, so it isn’t a COBRA qualifying event. In contrast, events like termination of employment (voluntary or involuntary), a reduction in hours, or the death of the covered employee are all recognized triggers that make a qualified beneficiary eligible to elect COBRA continuation. When a qualifying event occurs, the plan must provide a COBRA election notice and a window to elect continuation coverage.