The Washington Election Form for Continuation of Benefits, also known as COBRA, is a crucial document that allows eligible individuals to elect continued health insurance coverage after experiencing a qualifying event. COBRA refers to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, a federal law that provides workers and their families the right to keep their group health plan coverage for a limited period. This form is specific to Washington state and is used to ensure compliance with the state's COBRA regulations. The Washington Election Form for Continuation of Benefits — COBRA is a comprehensive document that outlines the terms and conditions of continued coverage, allowing employees and their dependents to make informed decisions about their medical insurance. It includes various sections that require detailed information, ensuring accurate record-keeping and efficient processing of the continuation benefits. Some important keywords relevant to the Washington Election Form for Continuation of Benefits — COBRA include: 1. Qualifying event: Refers to specific situations that make an employee or their dependents eligible for COBRA coverage, such as termination of employment, reduction in work hours, or death of the covered employee. This keyword highlights the trigger for possible continuation benefits. 2. Health insurance coverage: Emphasizes that the Washington Election Form for Continuation of Benefits — COBRA is specifically designed for maintaining medical insurance. It serves as a proof of election and serves to initiate the continuation coverage process outlined in the form. 3. Eligibility criteria: Details the requirements that individuals must meet to qualify for COBRA coverage. This could include factors like length of previous coverage, not being eligible for Medicare, or being a dependent beneficiary. 4. Duration of coverage: Specifies the maximum duration for which an individual can maintain COBRA coverage. In Washington state, it typically extends up to 18 months, although there may be provisions for extensions in certain circumstances. 5. Dependent information: Requests identifying details of dependents who will be covered under the continuation plan. This section ensures proper enrollment and accurate billing for extended coverage. It's important to note that while the Washington Election Form for Continuation of Benefits — COBRA is the standard form used in the state, there may be additional variations or supplemental forms specific to certain organizations or insurance providers. These forms may contain additional fields or provisions to tailor the COBRA continuation benefits to their respective plans and policies.