Defining Involuntary

The DoL has added to the Q&A section of it's Web site explaining the COBRA subsidies. This includes a link to the IRS's further explanation of what it means to be "involuntarily" terminated.

So, involuntary or not? Here's a simplified sample. Be sure to visit the Web site directly for full details.

YES: the employer doesn't renew a contract when it expires.

NO: divorce or a dependent child becoming independent.

NO: the death of an employee or absence from work due to illness or disability.

YES: reduction to zero hours (lay-off, furlough, etc.) that results in lost coverage.

YES: voluntarily quitting in response to an employer imposing reduced hours.