What is COBRA?

In order to qualify for COBRA an employee must meet the following requirements:

In 1986, a Federal law required that certain employers sponsoring group health plans offer employees and their families the opportunity for a temporary extension of health coverage at group rates in certain instances where coverage under the plan would otherwise end. NOTE: It is the employer's responsibility to notify a qualifying beneficiary of his/her eligibility for COBRA benefits.

What is HIPPA?

Enacted in 1996, HIPAA affects virtually all employer-sponsored health plans and all group and individual health insurance contracts. Primarily the Federal law limits pre-existing condition exclusions and encourages portability of coverage. Failure to comply with certain provisions of HIPAA can result in financial penalties to employers.