Can Legally Required Communications be Streamlined?

Communicating the details of your plan is critical and protects both you and your plan participants. Consider one recent case. The participant sued because, among other things, the term “qualifying event” wasn’t clearly explained in a COBRA notice. Even the company’s plan administrator couldn’t explain the information contained in the letter.

Therefore, it’s critical that you provide the best resources and advice possible and always communicate plan details clearly and in plain English. Don’t cloud the issue with “official-sounding” language that doesn’t further your objectives. Most importantly, have all communications reviewed by your plan’s advisors.