COBRA provides temporary continuation of health coverage when it would otherwise be lost due to certain events like job loss. It applies to employers with 20+ employees and provides qualified beneficiaries like employees, spouses, dependents up to 36 months of continued coverage at group rates. When coverage is lost due to job loss, reduction in hours, divorce or other qualifying events, beneficiaries must be notified of COBRA rights and have 60 days to elect continued coverage by paying premiums. Coverage can end earlier for non-payment of premiums or obtaining other coverage, and conversion to individual policies must be offered at the end of the continuation period.