Paying for COBRA Coverage

The initial premium is due within 45 days of the date a qualified beneficiary elects COBRA coverage, retroactively paying for time elapsed during the election period.¹​

The qualified beneficiary can make subsequent payments in monthly installments, due at the first of the month. However, you must provide a grace period, which is the later of:

• Within 30 days after beginning the monthly coverage period.
• The end of the allowed grace period for your payment of premiums.² California insurance law stipulates a 31-day grace period.

COBRA rules explicitly state that a payment is considered made on the date the payment is