Update to COBRA phase out process

Last year we announced Arkansas Blue Cross will phase out our current COBRA administration model in partnership with HealthEquity beginning April 1, 2024. The phase out process has started, and you and your clients need to be aware of some important updates.

• Large groups will phase out April 1 – July 1, 2024, and small groups will phase out April 1 – December 1, 2024.
• Clients with an April 1 phase out date will receive a letter this week explaining the COBRA phase out process.
• If a client plans to terminate their relationship with HealthEquity/Wage Works on their phase out date, see the sample HealthEquity/Wage works email for important employer portal and reporting request instructions.
  • Note: Arkansas Blue Cross staff does not have access to termination related eligibility reporting in the employer’s HealthEquity/Wage Works portal.
• If a client plans to transition to a direct contact with HealthEquity/Wage Works for their COBRA administration, there are instructions in the email explaining that process.

Below is an ongoing communication schedule: