COBRA

Frequently Asked Questions

WHO MUST COMPLY? All employers who had 20 or more employees on 50 percent of its typical business days during the preceding calendar year must comply with COBRA. The only exceptions to this rule are: The federal government, church plans (within the meaning of 414(e) of the IRS.

WHICH PLANS APPLY TO COBRA? Medical, dental, vision, prescription, health FSA and certain EAP’s.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO ELECT COBRA? You will have 60 days from your qualifying event.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO MAKE MY FIRST COBRA PAYMENT AFTER I ELECT COBRA? You will have 45 days from the date you elect COBRA to make all back premiums from your last day of coverage.

WHEN ARE COBRA PREMIUMS DUE? COBRA premiums are due the 1^st of each month. You are given a 30 day grace period.

IF I DO NOT MAKE MY PAYMENTS WITHIN 30 DAYS WHAT HAPPENS TO MY INSURANCE? If your COBRA premiums are not received or post marked within 30 days, insurance will be terminated due to non payment.  You will need to watch for months that have 31 days.  Your premiums need to be received or post marked prior to the 31^st.

WHAT IF I GET COVERAGE THROUGH A NEW EMPLOYER? You should notify your previous employer in writing that you have coverage and the date it becomes effective.   As of that date your COBRA will be terminated unless, you were covered by Medicare insurance prior to your qualifying event date.  Then you would be entitled to continue your COBRA coverage.