COMPLIANCE

The IRS evaluates employer records to validate COBRA compliance for companies with 20 or more employees. A joint Department of Labor (DOL) and IRS task force tracks individual complaints for COBRA violations.

• What are the implications for employers?

  • Employers are required to demonstrate COBRA compliance during a corporate income tax audit. The IRS reviews employer’s method for notifying employees regarding qualifying events, records of the employees electing COBRA coverage and information on premiums charged for COBRA continuation.

  • Companies can be fined by IRS for non-compliance with COBRA regulations.

• How can BenefitsAssist, inc. help employers comply?

  • Notification of group health continuation coverage is issued to newly covered employees and their dependents. BenefitsAssist, inc. tracks the printing and mailing dates for future reference.

  • When an employee has a COBRA qualifying event, such as termination, reduction in hours, or a change in marital status the employer should notify BenefitsAssist, inc., who will then send notification to the qualifying beneficiary within the timeline required by the IRS.