Learn the key rules for dependent enrollment in COBRA continuation coverage for the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam. Understand when dependents can and cannot be enrolled.
Table of Contents
Question
Dependent enrollment with COBRA continuation coverage
A. is required if the primary beneficiary is enrolled.
B. is allowed even if the primary beneficiary is not enrolled.
C. is only permitted if the primary beneficiary is enrolled.
D. is generally not permitted in any instance.
Answer
The correct answer is: C. Dependent enrollment with COBRA continuation coverage is only permitted if the primary beneficiary is enrolled.
Explanation
Under COBRA continuation coverage rules, dependents are only allowed to enroll in COBRA if the primary beneficiary (i.e. the covered employee) is also enrolled. Dependents cannot elect COBRA coverage independently if the primary beneficiary declines coverage or is not eligible.
The other answer choices are incorrect:
A. Dependent enrollment is not required if the primary beneficiary enrolls in COBRA, it is just permitted. The primary beneficiary could choose to enroll in COBRA without enrolling their dependents.
B. Dependents cannot enroll in COBRA if the primary beneficiary is not enrolled. Their ability to enroll is contingent on the primary beneficiary’s enrollment.
D. While dependent enrollment is restricted under COBRA, it is permitted in the instance where the primary beneficiary enrolls in coverage. So this statement that it is generally not permitted in any instance is inaccurate.
In summary, for dependents to enroll in COBRA continuation coverage after a qualifying event, the primary beneficiary must also enroll in the coverage. Dependents cannot enroll independently under COBRA rules.
Dependents may enroll with COBRA continuation coverage even if the primary beneficiary (employee or former employee) is not enrolled.
SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the SHRM-SCP exam and earn SHRM-SCP certification.