When does COBRA coverage begin?
COBRA coverage begins on the date that health care coverage would otherwise have been lost by reason of a qualifying event.Note: If your qualifying event was involuntary termination of employment that occurred on or after September 1, 2008 through February 16, 2009, you may be eligible for an additional election opportunity under ARRA. The date coverage begins will generally differ for individuals exercising this additional election. For more information see the questions below or visit the COBRA Premium Reduction FAQs or call 1.866.444.3272 to speak to a Benefits Advisor.
COBRA coverage begins on the date that health care coverage would otherwise have been lost by reason of a qualifying event. Usually this means that the first day of the month following termination of employment or other qualifying event. COBRA alternate coverage usually begins on the day after application. In some cases coverage starts on the first day of the month following the date of application.
COBRA coverage for an AEI who elects COBRA during the special election period begins on the first day of the first COBRA coverage period beginning after the date of enactment of the ARRA (March 1, 2009, for group health plans using calendar months as COBRA coverage periods). COBRA coverage is not retroactive to the date the AEI originally lost coverage. If an AEI elects COBRA during the special election period, when does the COBRA coverage period end?
