Скачать или смотреть The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA) is a substantial amendment to ERISA. COBRA applies to private employers with 20+ employees and state/local governments, but not to churches or the federal government. It requires employers to offer temporary continuation of group health coverage to qualified beneficiaries after a qualifying event.

A qualified beneficiary is typically an employee, spouse, or dependent who was covered the day before the event. Qualifying events include death, job loss (not for misconduct), reduced work hours, divorce, Medicare eligibility, or a child aging out of coverage. Qualified individuals have at least 60 days to elect coverage after the qualifying event.

Beneficiaries must pay the full insurance premium themselves, plus up to 2% for administrative costs. COBRA helps ensure people don’t lose health coverage immediately after major life or job changes.