When Your Employer Health Insurance Ends
Most people get health insurance through their employer. When you leave your job, your coverage usually ends in one of two ways:
- Same-day termination: Your health insurance ends the day your job ends.
- End-of-month termination: Your health insurance ends on the last day of the month when your job ends.
Note: Each employer has its own rules. Always check with your human resources or benefits department before you leave.
How to Get Covered After Employer Insurance Ends
Losing your job does not mean you lose health insurance right away. Most people are covered until the end of the month. After that, it is up to you to act. You have several options, including COBRA, the Health Insurance Marketplace, short-term plans, and Medicaid.
- COBRA: Obtain through your former employer or COBRA administrator. COBRA lets you temporarily keep your job-based health plan.
- Health Insurance Marketplace Explore ACA plans available in your state.
- Short-Term Health Insurance Find private insurers for flexible, limited-duration coverage options.
- Medicaid Apply through your state’s Medicaid office to see if you qualify for low-cost coverage.
Act quickly so there are no gaps in your coverage. Ask your HR department for the exact date your employer-sponsored coverage ends.
Find Coverage Between Jobs
If you are looking to cover an insurance gap after your work health insurance ends, the following temporary plans may be available in your state of residence.
Check Your Subsidy