Did you know the federal government provides free interactive guidance for help complying with COBRA? The COBRA Advisor is an easy-to-understand online tool that can help you determine your compliance with key requirements under the law, including requirements related to:
- Notices,
- Qualifying events,
- COBRA election procedures,
- Duration of continuation coverage, and
- Paying for COBRA.
COBRA generally requires that group health plans sponsored by employers with 20 or more employees in the prior year offer employees and eligible spouses and dependents the opportunity for a temporary extension of health insurance where coverage under the group plan would otherwise end due to certain qualifying events.
The information provided in the Advisor is not intended as legal advice. Employers, including those with fewer than 20 employees, may also need to comply with state “mini-COBRA” laws and should check with their state insurance departments for specific requirements.