We are not COBRA. For specific contract details about your current company policy, contact your health plan administrator.
The company's health plan premiums increased Aug 15. I lost my job and elected COBRA coverage based on the rates provided ($550/mth). These were confirmed in a letter dated Sept 18, stating I had coverage at $550 for each month thru the period of Aug the following year. There was a statement stating "These rates will carry you through the period indicated. You will receive a new payment schedule around the plan renewal (at which time rates are subject to change)". On Oct 1, I received a letter stating rates had increased to $1,050/mth due to an increase by the carrier. After checking with those still employed, they didn't have an increase. Is it legal to increase the premium for only those on COBRA? I've since learned the company is self-insured and owns the company that manages our health benefits. Since we are a heavy user of the benefits, is this why the rates are increasing? And can they keep increasing them until I can't afford them at all?