Request for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual

Request for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual is a 4-page legal document that was released by the U.S. Department of Labor and used nation-wide.

FAQ

Q: What is a Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual refers to the option for individuals who have lost their job-based health insurance to temporarily continue their coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) with reduced premiums.

Q: How do I qualify as an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: To qualify as an Assistance Eligible Individual, you must have involuntarily lost your job, or have experienced a reduction in hours that resulted in loss of employer-sponsored health coverage. You also need to be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage.

Q: What are the benefits of being an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: Being an Assistance Eligible Individual allows you to continue your health insurance coverage through COBRA, but with a temporary reduction in premiums. The government will pay a portion of your COBRA premiums for a specified period.

Q: How long can I receive assistance as an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: Assistance is available for up to six months, starting from April 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021. However, the assistance can end earlier if you become eligible for another group health plan or Medicare.

Q: Do I need to apply for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: If you qualify, you do not need to apply for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual. Your employer or health plan administrator should provide you with the necessary information and instructions to enroll and receive the reduced premium benefits.

Q: Will the assistance cover all of my COBRA premiums?
A: No, the assistance will cover 100% of your COBRA premiums if you qualify as an Assistance Eligible Individual. However, you may still be responsible for any remaining portion of the premium not covered by the assistance.

Q: Is Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual available in all states?
A: Yes, Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual is available in all states and applies to both federal and state continuation coverage programs, including mini-COBRA.

Q: Can I enroll in a different health insurance plan instead of using COBRA?
A: Yes, being an Assistance Eligible Individual does not limit your ability to enroll in other health insurance coverage options, such as marketplace plans or Medicaid, if you are eligible.

Q: What happens when the assistance period as an Assistance Eligible Individual ends?
A: When the assistance period ends, you will be responsible for the full COBRA premium. You may also have other health coverage options available, so it's essential to explore those alternatives before the end of the assistance period.

Q: Are there income limits to qualify for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual?
A: No, there are no income limits to qualify for Treatment as an Assistance Eligible Individual. The eligibility is based on job loss or reduction in hours leading to loss of employer-sponsored health coverage.