What determines who must send the qualifying event notice?

• A. The type of qualifying event.
• B. The employee's personal preference.
• C. The company's payroll cycle.
• D. The time since the event.

Answer: (A)

The party responsible for sending the qualifying event notice is determined by the type of qualifying event. Some events that affect coverage are initiated by the employer or plan, so the plan administrator sends the notice about COBRA rights to the affected individuals. Other events that affect a dependent’s eligibility (for example, a divorce or a dependent aging out) require the employee or the dependent to notify the plan administrator that the qualifying event occurred, so COBRA rights can be offered. In short, the specific event type dictates who must issue the notice.