New Hampshire Health Insurance Continuation Options

New Hampshire follows the federal COBRA law, which allows eligible individuals to continue their employer-sponsored health insurance after a qualifying event such as job loss, reduced hours, or divorce.

In addition, the state offers its own Mini-COBRA law for employees of small businesses with fewer than 20 employees, providing similar continuation rights for those not covered under federal COBRA.

New Hampshire State Continuation Coverage (Mini-COBRA)

New Hampshire's State Continuation Coverage, commonly referred to as Mini-COBRA, allows eligible individuals to continue their group health insurance after experiencing certain qualifying events. This law applies to fully insured group health plans, regardless of the employer's size, and offers protections similar to federal COBRA.

• Employer Size: Applies to employers of any size offering fully insured group health plans.
• Eligibility: Employees and dependents who were enrolled in the group plan at the time of the qualifying event.
• Qualifying Events: Includes job loss, reduction in hours, divorce, legal separation, loss of dependent status, death of the covered employee, and bankruptcy (in some cases).
• Coverage Duration: Up to 18 months for most individuals; up to 36 months for certain dependents. If the group plan ends entirely, continuation must be offered for 39 weeks.
• Premium Payment: Individuals pay the full premium amount, plus a 2% administrative fee.
• Election Period: Must elect coverage within 60 days of the qualifying event or notice of eligibility, whichever is later.
• How to Apply: Request continuation coverage through your employer or plan administrator within the election window; they are required to provide written notice of your rights and instructions.

Alternative Low Cost Medical Plans in New Hampshire

Continuing an employer plan in New Hampshire with Mini-COBRA is around $491/mo, per individual. If COBRA is unavailable or is outside of your budget, you do have affordable other options for health coverage. See below.

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