Frequently Asked Questions About Starting COBRA Health Insurance
COBRA insurance is the most recent employer health you’ve used. The federal COBRA law allows you to stay on the plan (as long as you pay the full premium).
To begin COBRA, you work with the former employer or their third-party administrator for enrollments, payments and plan management.
Are You Still Insured?
Leaving a job doesn’t cut off your health insurance immediately, and most people stay covered through the end of the month. Be sure to check with the employer’s Human Resources department to find out your last day of coverage.
Applying for COBRA Continuation
Retiring Before Starting Medicare
If you plan on retiring before you are eligible for Medicare, it’s important you understand the COBRA trap that may lead to lifetime financial penalties.
COBRA Eligibility & Qualifying Events
- COBRA Qualifying Events – find out if you qualify
- Employment Termination – fired, layoff, quit or retirement
- Reduced Hours and No Longer Qualifies for Health Insurance
- Child age 26 coming off parents plan
- Divorce or separation from policyholder
- Retirement
- Death of the covered employee
- About Grandchildren
Services Covered By COBRA
Not Covered: Life Insurance Benefits
Mini-COBRA for Small Businesses
In many states, businesses with 19 or fewer employees must offer continued health coverage similar to COBRA. Deadlines and decision periods may vary by state law. Review your state’s mini-COBRA law.
COBRA Alternatives
There are several situations where choosing an alternative to COBRA may be a better fit for your budget or coverage needs. Depending on your circumstances, options like the ACA Marketplace, short-term health insurance, or Medicaid could provide more affordable or longer-term coverage.
About this Website
COBRAinsurance.com is a nationally licensed health insurance agency that helps people stay covered when they lose their job or transition between plans. Backed by parent company SASid, Inc., and supported by Acrisure, one of the world’s top insurance brokers, we’ve helped over 4 million people find affordable, temporary health coverage. Our team uses smart technology and decades of experience to make complex insurance options simple and accessible. Learn more about us.