How do I Apply for Mini Cobra Health Insurance in Rhode Island?

If a person loses his job, the 1986 Federal Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) provides a continuation of group health insurance for up to 18 months if the company has at least 20 employees. Rhode Island's mini-COBRA law allows a continuation of coverage for people who lose jobs from companies with two to 19 employees. The employee is still entitled to 18 months of coverage and he must pay the full premium amount the insurance company charged his former employer. Mini-COBRA also covers dependents.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if your reason for leaving the company, or "qualifying event," is eligible for Rhode Island mini-COBRA coverage. Eligible events include reduction in work hours, divorce or voluntary or involuntary termination, unless the termination was for gross misconduct.

• 2

  Contact your employer if you have not received your mini-Cobra election paper work within 45 days of your last day of work. Confirm your mailing address, qualifying event and date of termination.

• 3

  Fill out the election notice, and mail it to the insurance company. Generally, there are only a few simple, straightforward forms that ask for your name, dependents, employer name, date of termination and desired benefits, such as health, dental and vision coverage.