When an employee or dependent who is currently receiving benefits qualifies for an extension of benefits?

There are several reasons why an employee or dependent should continue to receive benefits and coverage:

Usually group insurance plans that are terminated provide an extension of benefits in order for a dependent or disabled employee to continue to receive benefits for an additional period of time, generally for up to 12 more months. If an employee dies or gets divorced, their dependents must continue to receive benefits and coverage for up to 36 months. Or if the employee must take a leave of absence due to illness, coverage and benefits should continue for 12 months. In case an employee is laid off, his/her coverage and benefits should be extended if the termination was either voluntary or for reasons other than gross misconduct (up to 18 months).