You, along with your spouse and dependants, may become eligible for COBRA through what are called qualifying events.

The following circumstances could terminate your employer-sponsored group health coverage and are considered qualifying events for ongoing COBRA eligibility.

Employees

- Voluntary or involuntary termination of employment for any reason other than gross misconduct. For example, arson or embezzlement
- Voluntary or involuntary reduction in work hours below the minimum number of hours required to qualify for group health coverage

Spouses

- Voluntary or involuntary termination of the covered employee's job for any reason other than gross misconduct.
- Covered employee is subject to a reduction in work hours below the minimum number of hours required to qualify for group health coverage.
- Covered employee becomes eligible for Medicare and no longer qualifies for the employer-sponsored group health plan.
- Covered employee and spouse divorce or become legally separated.
- Death of the covered employee.

Dependent Children

- Coverage is subject to the same rules as for spouses until the child reaches the age where he/she no longer qualifies for coverage under the parent’s group health plan