What if the number and names of an employees dependents are unknown?
During the transition period (through June 30, 1998), a written certificate regarding dependent coverage need only specify the name of the participant covered by the plan and the type of coverage provided (such as family coverage or employee-plus-spouse coverage). However, if requested to provide a certificate relating to a dependent, the plan or issuer must make reasonable efforts to obtain and provide the name of the dependent. Beginning July 1, 1998, a plan or issuer must make reasonable efforts to collect the necessary information for dependents and include it on the certificate. However, an automatic certificate is not required to be issued until the plan or issuer reasonably knows that the dependent ceased coverage. This information can be collected annually, such as during an annual open enrollment.
