COBRA eligibility after buying private insurance?

We were paying COBRA for dental coverage until we could qualify for cheaper private dental coverage (Delta Dental) starting Sep. 1.

Of course, just a couple days ago, my wife found out she needed nearly $4k in dental work. Delta Dental will cover only a relatively small amount compared to the COBRA coverage (neither surprising or unexpected).

Incidentally, however, this expense will be incurred during our COBRA grace period. Our COBRA administrator confirmed we are still eligible to continue COBRA coverage if I pay the retroactive premium by Sep. 30, and they would instruct the carrier to restart coverage back to Sep. 1.

Now, I know that you are no longer eligible for COBRA if an employer offers equivalent coverage.

But am I disqualified from COBRA if I have subsequently purchased unsubsidized secondary/private coverage outside of an employer?

I looked for this information elsewhere and saw only one mention of this specific topic, an answer with uncertain credibility. Our COBRA documentation does not address this specific situation. I could call the COBRA admin to ask, but I always have to leave a voicemail, and it takes them a long time to reply to questions.

submitted by /u/renbutler2
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