Child will turn 26 in October 2014

[karen1027]

CHild will turn 26 in October 2014 and therefore, (I think) will no longer be covered under parent's plan. When does the parent's employer have to notify the child about COBRA, i.e. how much notice is given? Is it possible for a plan to extend parent's coverage past the age of 26?

[J Simmons]

Under the particular plan, when does the child lose coverage by reason of turning age 26--on his or her birthday or at the end of the plan year in which he or she reaches age 26? Whichever, I believe, is the COBRA event. Give notice and election to the child at least 14 days before he or she will lose coverage.

The plan might permit the child's coverage via the parent/employee to be continued, but it might not be tax free.

[GMK]

In addition, the person will have 60 days to accept COBRA coverage. That 60 days starts after when you send the notice or when coverage ends, whichever is later, so send the notice before coverage ends. COBRA for the child is like any other COBRA for one individual.

Generally, coverage will end at the end of the month in which the child reaches age 26, but check to be certain when the coverage ends under the plan before you send the notice.