How long do I have to make a final decision regarding the continuation of my Health Plan coverage?
To protect your rights under COBRA, you must submit an election to continue your Health Plan coverage no later than the 60th day after your Health Plan coverage ends. Remember, for this purpose, your Health Plan coverage ends on the strike date. But your election to continue your Health Plan coverage need not cost you anything until the 45th day from the date you submit your election. In effect, you have 105 days after you lose coverage before you have to pay anything, during which time your right to have your Health Plan coverage reinstated is protected, provided you made a timely election within the 60-day period. However, if you do not ultimately elect to reinstate your coverage retroactively under COBRA, your subsequent Health Plan may not cover you for any preexisting conditions for some period of time (see Q&A above).
Related Questions
- Is health plan coverage provided under a cafeteria plan subject to the federal health care continuation requirements of the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act ("COBRA")?
- How does the continuation of health plan benefits apply to a multiemployer plan that provides health plan coverage through a health benefits account system?
- How long do I have to make a final decision regarding the continuation of my Health Plan coverage?
