DOL Issues COBRA Subsidy Model Notices

The DOL has posted on their website model notices to be used in complying with ARRA's COBRA subsidy provisions. Please note that there are different notices available for the different groups of qualified beneficiaries that are required to receive notices…

The DOL has posted on their website model notices to be used in complying with ARRA’s COBRA subsidy provisions. Please note that there are different notices available for the different groups of qualified beneficiaries that are required to receive notices about the premium reduction pursuant to ARRA. The notices must be provided by April 18, 2009 which leaves very little time for employers to act.

  • General Notice (Full version): Plans subject to the Federal COBRA provisions must send the General Notice to all qualified beneficiaries, not just covered employees, who experienced a qualifying event at any time from September 1, 2008 through December 31, 2009, regardless of the type of qualifying event, AND who either have not yet been provided an election notice or who were provided an election notice on or after February 17, 2009 that did not include the additional information required by ARRA. This full version includes information on the premium reduction as well as information required in a COBRA election notice.

  • General Notice (Abbreviated version): The abbreviated version of the General Notice includes the same information as the full version regarding the availability of the premium reduction and other rights under ARRA, but does not include the COBRA coverage election information. The DOL indicates that this notice may be sent in lieu of the full version to individuals who experienced a qualifying event during on or after September 1, 2008, have already elected COBRA coverage, and still have it.

  • Alternative Notice: Insurance issuers that provide group health insurance coverage must send the Alternative Notice to persons who became eligible for continuation coverage under a state law. Since continuation coverage requirements vary among states, the DOL has indicated that issuers should modify this model notice as necessary to conform it to the applicable state law requirements. The DOL further indicates that issuers may find the model Alternative Notice or the abbreviated model General Notice appropriate for use in certain situations.

  • Notice in Connection with Extended Election Periods: Plans subject to the federal COBRA provisions must send the Notice in Connection with Extended Election Periods to any assistance eligible individual (or any individual who would be an assistance eligible individual if a COBRA continuation election were in effect) who:

    1. Had a qualifying event at any time from September 1, 2008 through February 16, 2009; and
    2. Either did not elect COBRA continuation coverage, or who elected it but subsequently discontinued COBRA.

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