COBRA Insurance: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to maintain your employer-sponsored health coverage for a limited time after losing your job.
COBRA is a way to temporarily keep the same health insurance you had through your employer after you lose your job.
Who it's for
This is for workers who have lost their jobs and want to continue their existing health coverage.
What you get
You can maintain the same health insurance benefits you had while you were employed, allowing for a temporary continuation of your coverage.
What it costs you
This is often very expensive because you are responsible for the full premium yourself, rather than your employer paying a portion. You will also have to pay additional administrative fees.
The catch to know
You have a limited window of time to make a decision. You must elect to continue your coverage within 60 days of losing your job.
How to apply
- Review your options after losing your employment.
- Contact your former employer to request election notice.
- Complete the required paperwork to choose your coverage.
- Pay the full premium and fees to activate your plan.
For more details, visit https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra