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Q:  On July 1, 2006, I voluntarily took early retirement from my employment and turned 62 on the 19th of that month. I applied for COBRA immediately and have been covered continuously since that time. My eighteen months runs out on Dec. 31, 2007. I need to get coverage for the following eighteen months up to when I turn 65. Question: Does Arizona, or the Federal government for that matter, mandate that coverage be offered for the second eighteen months so that people don't go "bare"? You should also know that prior to my early retirement I tried to purchase coverage myself through private health carriers, but was declined by each because I had a bout with rheumatoid arthritis a couple years earlier which has since gone into remission. I'm sure if I try again to seek coverage through a private carrier, I will continue to be denied for that reason. So, how do I resolve the dilemma of getting the coverage I need?

A: There are only a few ways that a person would be able to extend their COBRA coverage.

1.  If you are deemed legally disabled before or within the first 60 days of COBRA coverage, you are eligible for an additional 11 months. The total coverage time would be up to 29 months.

2.  If at any time during the continuation coverage have encountered another qualifying event.  Generally, multiple qualifying events are subject to the spouse and/or dependents.

There is no federal law that mandates that COBRA be extended past the 18 months to age 65 for a retired employee.   You should contact your state’s Department of Insurance.  They may have a policy available for you because you can’t obtain insurance elsewhere due to your medical history or current medical conditions.