If you develop a disability A disability is any condition of the body or mind (impairment) that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines disability—and eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits (SSDI)—based on whether you can work and whether your disability is likely to be permanent. (Definition from the World Health Organization) within the first 60 days of getting COBRA coverage, you and your family may be able to extend your COBRA by 11 months, to a maximum of 29 months.
In this case, you must tell your COBRA insurer that you developed a disability no later than 60 days after receiving your disability determination. To be eligible for an extension, your disability must continue for the rest of the 18-month period of COBRA coverage. Contact your plan for more information on receiving an extension.