COBRA Health Insurance Continuation in Alaska

Alaska, like all states, follows the federal Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), which is a law that allows certain individuals the right to continue their employer-sponsored health coverage for a limited period of time after a qualifying event such as the loss of a job, reduction in hours, or divorce.

COBRA applies to private-sector employers with 20 or more employees and is overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor. Individuals who qualify may maintain their group health plan for up to 18 months, or longer in some cases, but must pay the full cost of the coverage—including any portion previously paid by the employer—plus a small administrative fee.

Federal COBRA Coverage in Alaska

Federal COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) gives eligible employees and their families the right to continue group health benefits provided by their employer’s health plan after a qualifying event. Employers in Alaska must comply with federal COBRA regulations if they have 20 or more employees. Individuals who elect coverage are required to cover the full cost of the plan without employer contribution, including up to a 2% administrative fee.

• Employer Size: Applies to private-sector employers and state or local government employers with 20 or more employees.
• Eligibility: Employees and their dependents who were covered under the plan before the qualifying event.
• Qualifying Events: Involuntary job loss, reduction in hours, divorce or legal separation, death of the covered employee, or a dependent aging out of coverage.
• Coverage Duration: Typically up to 18 months, with possible extensions up to 36 months in cases of disability or multiple qualifying events.
• Premium Payment: The individual pays 100% of the premium plus a 2% administrative fee.
• Election Period: Individuals have 60 days from the later of the event or notice date to elect COBRA coverage.
• How to Apply: Employers must provide a COBRA election notice. Eligible individuals must complete and return the election form and submit payment within the timeframe provided.

Affordable Alternatives to COBRA in Alaska

In Alaska, the average health insurance premium is $1,037/mo per individual. If COBRA is unavailable or is outside of your budget, here are affordable other options for health coverage.

The cost of health insurance is determined by your age and state of residency.