Employers and plan administrators share responsibility for sending COBRA notices, depending on the situation. These notices must be provided on time to keep the employer in compliance and ensure employees understand their rights.
📨 Initial (General) COBRA Notice
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Must be sent to covered employees and their spouses within 90 days of enrolling in the group health plan
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Typically sent by the plan administrator
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Explains COBRA rights and how continuation coverage works
⚠️ Qualifying Event Notice
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The employer must notify the plan administrator within 30 days of a qualifying event (e.g., termination, reduction in hours)
📬 COBRA Election Notice
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After being notified of the qualifying event, the plan administrator has 14 days to send an election notice to each qualified beneficiary
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If the employer is also the plan administrator, they have up to 44 days from the date of the event to send the election notice
🧠 Why It Matters:
Missing a deadline or failing to send a required notice can lead to fines and liability. Using a COBRA administrator can help streamline this process and reduce compliance risk.