What Are the Key COBRA Deadlines?

Three federally defined COBRA deadlines drive coverage: a 60-day election period after the COBRA notice, a 45-day grace period to pay the initial premium after electing, and a 30-day grace period for each premium after that.

Overview

This article outlines three key federally defined deadlines for COBRA - the Election Period, the Initial Grace Period and the Subsequent Grace Period - for quick reference. Knowing these critical dates helps you stay on track with important timelines and avoid missing an essential milestone.

The three key COBRA deadlines

Election Period

The 60 day period following the date the COBRA notice was provided. The qualified beneficiary must elect COBRA during the Election Period.

Initial Grace Period

The 45 day period following the date the QB elected COBRA coverage. The QB must pay the initial premium during the Initial Grace Period.

Important: at a minimum, this payment must cover premiums through the end of the month preceding the month in which the initial premium payment falls.

Subsequent Grace Period

The 30 day period following the Premium Due Date, which is the first day of the month. After the Initial Grace Period, the QB must pay premiums within the Subsequent Grace Period.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to elect COBRA coverage?

The Election Period is the 60 day period following the date the COBRA notice was provided. The qualified beneficiary must elect COBRA during that Election Period.

When is the first COBRA premium payment due?

The Initial Grace Period is the 45 day period following the date the qualified beneficiary elected COBRA coverage, and the initial premium must be paid during that period. At a minimum, this payment must cover premiums through the end of the month preceding the month in which the initial premium payment falls.

How long do I have to pay COBRA premiums after the first payment?

After the Initial Grace Period, the qualified beneficiary must pay premiums within the Subsequent Grace Period, which is the 30 day period following the Premium Due Date — the first day of the month.