COBRA Coverage Must Equal Active Employee's Coverage

COBRA requires that coverage, in terms of benefits, deductibles and coverage limits, be identical to similarly situated active plan participants.1

Changes in the plan for active participants (for example, a higher deductible, change in coverage limits or benefits or terminating the plan) similarly will affect those participating through COBRA.

Likewise, whenever an active employee can make changes in coverage or add dependents, such as at annual open enrollments, so can all qualified beneficiaries participating in coverage through COBRA. All notices you provide to active employees should also be provided to qualified beneficiaries.


1. 29 U.S.C. 1162(1)