COBRA and
Leaves of Absence
If you take a Leave of Absence, your health coverage may continue during your leave, depending on the type of leave and the terms of your benefits. If your coverage ends while you are on leave or when your leave ends, you may be eligible to continue coverage through COBRA.
What Is COBRA?
COBRA is a federal law that may give you and your covered dependents the option to continue your BAYADA health coverage for a limited period after certain qualifying events, such as losing coverage because your employment ends or your hours are reduced. Click here to learn more about COBRA coverage.
How Does COBRA Work With a Leave of Absence?
Your health coverage during a Leave of Absence depends on the type of leave you take and the applicable benefits rules.
- During FMLA leave: If you qualify for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), your employer generally must maintain your group health coverage under the same terms as if you were still working.
- During other types of leave: Coverage depends on the applicable leave policies and benefits plan rules. You may need to take additional steps to maintain your coverage.
- If your coverage ends: If you lose your health coverage because of a qualifying event, such as a reduction in work hours or not returning to work after FMLA leave, you may be eligible to elect COBRA continuation coverage.
What Should I Do if I’m Taking a Leave?
Before your leave begins, email LeaveManagement@bayada.com to understand how your leave may affect your benefits. Ask whether your health coverage will continue, how you should make any required premium payments, and what happens if your coverage ends.
If you become eligible for COBRA, you will receive information explaining your continuation coverage options, costs and enrollment deadlines. Please note: Employees and eligible dependents generally have 60 days to elect COBRA coverage. After electing, you have 45 days to make your first premium payment. Once that payment is received, coverage is effective retroactively to your COBRA effective date. Review the information carefully and follow the instructions by the deadline if you choose to continue your coverage.
What Does COBRA Cost?
If you elect COBRA, you generally pay the full cost of your health coverage, including the portion your employer previously paid, plus an administrative fee.
Questions?
BAYADA Leave Management — Leave Program Support
Email LeaveManagement@bayada.com for additional assistance understanding your leave options, leave requirements, or BAYADA’s leave process. Your COBRA eligibility, coverage dates and payment requirements depend on your circumstances and the applicable plan rules.