Employer Provided Group Health Insurance/Fringe Benefits
Fringe benefits and their application to health coverage in the state of California is a complex set of laws laid out by the IRS. If you have recently lost your group health benefits and were never given an opportunity to elect outside, or fringe, plans – you may have legal options. The Kenton Koszdin Law Office has a thorough understanding of these regulations and can assist in a number of ways. While we cannot directly handle or represent such a case, our office can provide extensive information and help you find a reputable fringe benefits attorney.
Do not let your employer cancel essential health benefits at a time when you need them most. Businesses are held to strict federal standards when it comes to group plans and need to provide you with notification or else face penalties. Let the Kenton Koszdin Law Office provide you with the options and knowledge to make an informed decision about how to reclaim your coverage. Don’t delay – call (800) 438-7734 or use our online contact form to set up a free consultation today.
What Happens if my Group Health Insurance is Cancelled?
Generally speaking, if an injured employee has missed a considerable amount of time and is unable to effectively return to work, he or she may lose health benefits provided through the company. Despite coming at the worst time imaginable, this happens more often than not. That said – employers are legally bound by a federal code known as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERIS) to accomplish a number of notifications.
First, an employer must provide significant and clear notification that the employees benefits are in danger of running out. This is where many businesses foul up; failing to give an employee adequate notice or precise instruction can leave the individual in a lurch quite suddenly when their benefits run out. Secondly, the employee must be given the opportunity to elect to go under a new policy – namely COBRA. The employee has exactly 60 days to make this election or face forfeiture of their options. If an employer has not provided this possibility, the worker may be able to take legal action.
Why Should I Speak With a Los Angeles Workers’ Comp Lawyer?
Quite simply, your employer cannot legally discontinue your group health care without taking the proper steps as laid out by the IRS and ERIS. Without proper notification and the option to re-up under COBRA, your employer is running the risk of legal action on a federal level – not to mention threatening your well-being.
You will need thorough and precise counsel to take on your employer and secure your rightful coverage. Contact the Kenton Koszdin Law Office today and speak with one of our knowledgeable benefits attorneys. Group health coverage, as well as the whole spectrum of fringe benefits, is not reviewed by the Worker’s Compensation Appeals Board. They fall under federal jurisdiction – which is outside our practice area.
However, while we cannot take your case on directly, we can provide thorough insight and the names of attorneys who can best represent you.
