Payroll 310 Badge #04 - COBRA-Payroll 310 Badge #4

Payroll 310 Badge #4 - PowerPoint

Pdf Summary

This WASBO Badge #4 module explains COBRA within Washington State school districts under the SEBB Program (Health Care Authority). COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) is a federal law that allows employees and their families to temporarily continue employer-based group health coverage after losing eligibility due to certain “qualifying events.” Individuals who elect COBRA may be required to pay the full premium, up to 102% of the plan cost. The training outlines roles for the employer, the employee/dependents, and SEBB, and describes how notices, elections, and enrollments occur.<br /><br />Key terms include: continuation coverage (temporary self-paid SEBB coverage after loss of eligibility), COBRA continuation coverage, unpaid leave continuation coverage (an extension available for certain leave situations), qualified beneficiary (covered employee, spouse/SRDP, and dependent children—including children born/adopted during COBRA), qualifying event (e.g., termination or reduction in hours), and special open enrollment (limited opportunities to change enrollment due to life events). Relevant legal references include federal COBRA statutes and Washington Administrative Code (WAC); SRDP refers to State Registered Domestic Partner.<br /><br />The module lists qualifying events by person type. For employees, events include reduction of hours below eligibility requirements or employment ending (not for gross misconduct). Spouses/SRDPs and dependent children may qualify due to the employee’s death, reduced hours, termination, divorce/partnership termination, or a child losing dependent status under SEBB rules.<br /><br />Employer responsibilities include notifying SEBB when employment ends, hours drop below eligibility, approved leave without pay occurs, or the employee dies. Employees/dependents (or their representatives) must notify the district/SEBB in writing within 60 days for events like divorce/partnership termination, dependent loss of eligibility, or dependent death, providing required identifying details.<br /><br />After the employer enters end dates and reports the loss of coverage, SEBB sends election materials and administers the process. The election form must be returned within 60 days of coverage ending or the postmark date on SEBB’s notice (whichever is later). Optional continuation may also include FSA, life, and AD&D coverage. The badge includes knowledge checks, resources/links, and a final assessment requirement (75%+).

Keywords

COBRA

SEBB Program

Washington State school districts

Health Care Authority (HCA)

continuation coverage

qualifying event

qualified beneficiary

special open enrollment

COBRA election notice

unpaid leave continuation coverage