Anyone know about COBRA benefits?

[Rick Lee]

I'm leaving my job this Friday and starting my new one next Tues., Aug. 1. New job's benefits don't kick in until 45 days after my start date, so I either need to bet I'll be ok or look into COBRA. My HR guy just gave me the COBRA explanation package, which isn't real clear and he says to just pay it for a month or two and be safe. But the explanation says that I can elect coverage on my last day here and then I have 45 days to pay the premium. Obviously, if I don't pay, the coverage would cease. But 48 days is all I really need. So what happens if I break my leg on say the 40th day? Do I just mail in my premium payment and then the leg break is covered?

[singpilot]

Sounds like a good bet. Post date the check to friday if you have to mail it. In fact put the check, with a stamp on it, in your pocket, and give it to the EMS guys to mail on the way to the ER if it happens.

[JeremyD]

And typically it's 45 days from notification - you could have bought a few more days by not investigating - although it has to be in writing. Yes, I would make out a check - date it at day 30 then stick it in your pocket with a stamp and instructions to drop in the mail on the way to the hospital...