Non-Profits & Churches are Exempt from Offering COBRA

  1. Knowledge Base
  2. Starting COBRA
  3. Non-Profits & Churches

COBRA does not apply to employers that are churches or certain church-related organizations, and it also does not apply to some small nonprofit groups. These employers are exempt from the federal COBRA law, which means they are not required to offer continuation coverage when group health benefits end. Employees of exempt organizations should ask their employer about any state continuation laws or other options that may provide similar protections.

Other Organizations Exempt from COBRA

In addition to churches and and nonprofit groups, COBRA does not apply to employers with fewer than 20 employees, or to plans sponsored by the federal government. Employees in these organizations are not guaranteed COBRA continuation coverage and should review state continuation laws or other insurance options that may provide similar protection.