IRS & agencies
How do I mail my COBRA election and first payment with proof?
Updated · By the Certified Letter Online team
Fill in the election form from your COBRA notice and mail it to the plan administrator's address on the notice before your election period ends; you have at least 60 days from the later of the notice or the loss of coverage. After you elect, you generally have 45 days to make the first premium payment. Sending the election by Certified Mail gives you a postmarked receipt for the date you elected.
The U.S. Department of Labor's COBRA guide explains the election and payment rules. Keep copies of the form and the receipt in case the plan says it never got it.
| Step | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Elect coverage | At least 60 days from the later of the election notice or loss of coverage |
| First premium | Generally 45 days after you elect |
| Later premiums | Monthly, with a grace period of at least 30 days |
Mailing tips
- Use the exact address on the election notice (often a third-party administrator).
- Send the signed election form as a PDF upload; we print and mail it Certified.
- Pay premiums by the method the administrator accepts (we can't enclose checks).
Notes
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, a legal aid office or a licensed attorney in your state can tell you what applies.
Quick answers
How do companies send COBRA notices by mail?
Plans usually send election notices by First-Class Mail to the last known address. If you didn't get one, contact the plan administrator in writing.
Can I elect COBRA online?
Some administrators offer online election. If you mail it, use certified mail and keep the receipt.
Is coverage retroactive?
Yes, if you elect and pay on time, coverage generally goes back to the date you lost it.
What to do next
Upload your signed COBRA election form and we'll mail it Certified for $14.99, with a postmarked receipt emailed to you.
Mail my COBRA electionSources
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.