Coordination of benefits (COB)
Rules for claiming when two plans cover the same person.
Coordination of benefits governs the order in which plans pay when someone is covered twice — commonly spouses each with workplace coverage. Between them, a family can often recover most of an eligible expense.
Standard industry rules determine which plan is primary, including the birthday rule for dependent children.
What this means for a BC plan
Dual-income Vancouver households frequently under-claim because employees do not realize coordination is available. It costs the employer nothing and is one of the highest-value things to cover at enrolment.
Related terms
Where this comes up
What a group plan includes · All glossary terms · Ask an advisor directly
General information only, not advice for your specific plan. See our legal and licensing disclosures.