Which notices must be provided to COBRA qualified beneficiaries and within what timeframe?

• A. Notice of COBRA Rights within 60 days after the qualifying event, and an Election Notice; 30 days to elect
• B. Only a general plan notice
• C. Notice of COBRA Rights within 44 days after the qualifying event, and an Election Notice; beneficiaries then have 60 days to elect
• D. No notices required

Answer: (C)

The timing and two-part notices are what this item is testing. When a qualifying event occurs, a COBRA plan must first send a Notice of COBRA Rights to the qualified beneficiaries within 44 days after that event. This notice tells them that they may elect COBRA continuation coverage. Along with or soon after that, the plan must provide an Election Notice that explains how to elect COBRA and the 60-day window to do so. The beneficiary then has 60 days to elect COBRA coverage. If the plan fails to send these notices, rights can be jeopardized, and if only a general plan notice is provided, the beneficiary may not be informed about the right to elect COBRA. The option reflecting notices within 44 days and a 60-day election period best captures the required sequence and timing.