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Release Date: May 21, 2009
Contact Name: Gloria Della
Phone Number: 202.693.8664
Washington — The U.S. Department of Labor
today announced the appeal process individuals can use if they are
denied a premium subsidy for their group health plan continuation
coverage. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985
(COBRA) requires many group health plans to temporarily continue health
coverage for employees and their families following termination of
employment at the employee’s own expense.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)
signed into law by President Obama on Feb.17, 2009, made available
premium assistance for individuals who were involuntary terminated
between September 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009.
The appeal process allows applicants who are denied
the subsidy to request a review by the Labor Department’s Employee
Benefits Security Administration. Individuals seeking a review must
complete the department’s appeal form in order to begin the review
process. Through the following steps, applicants can easily submit the
completed application online, by mail or fax.
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Go to http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/COBRA/main.html
to download the application or complete online.
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Answer eligibility questions on
the application to the best of your knowledge and ability.
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Attach any documents relevant to
the department’s review of the application.
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Include complete contact
information (e.g., daytime phone number, an alternate phone number,
and an email address, if available).
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Separate application(s) must be
completed for any family member whose plan information is not
identical to the information you provide.
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Keep for your records a copy of
the application(s) and original supporting documentation.
Individuals requiring assistance may also contact
EBSA at 1.866.444.3272 or visit its dedicated Web page at www.dol.gov/cobra.
The Web page also contains additional frequently asked questions to help
dislocated workers, their families and their employers understand the
requirements.
U.S. Department of Labor news releases are accessible on the
Department's Newsroom
page. The information in this news release will be made available
in alternate format (large print, Braille, audio tape or
disc) from the COAST office upon request. Please specify which news release when
placing your request at 202.693.7828 or TTY 202.693.7755. The Labor Department is committed to providing America's employers and
employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply
with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit the
Department's Compliance
Assistance page.
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