QB paid retroactive premium (Aug. & Sept.) within 45 days on Oct.

[Guest Michael Watkins]

A QB became eligible for COBRA coverage Aug1. They elected and paid one months(Aug) premium on Sept17. On October 20 he paid another months premium(Sept) therefore catching up within the 45 day time frame. When do I start counting the 30 day grace period for the October premium? I am assuming he must pay the October premium by October 30 or his coverage will be cancelled October 1. Thank you for any help!!

[KIP KRAUS]

If premiums are normally due on the First of the month start the 30 day period on the first of the month in which premiums are due.

[Mary C]

COBRA regs state that if a regular monthly payment falls due within the 45 day grace period for the initial premium, then that month's payment isn't due till the end of the 45 days initial premium grace period. If they elected 9/17, then they have 45 days or until November 1 to pay the initial premium for August and September and any the additional monthly premium for October which was due within the 45 day initial premium grace period. In this case, it adds one additional day to the grace period for October.