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COBRA Coverage and Alternatives

COBRA coverage is usually available to employees who leave their job. Most of the time, exiting employees are responsible for the full cost of COBRA coverage, which can be very expensive. Currently the federal government is subsidizing COBRA coverage for certain employees who didn't leave their jobs voluntarily,* but even with the subsidy, the high price tag often puts COBRA out of reach.

Luckily COBRA isn't your only option.

Alternatives to COBRA

Is Short Term Health Insurance right for me?

Short Term Medical Plans

Save money by choosing Short Term Medical insurance to cover short gaps in permanent coverage.

Individual Medical Plans

If you need permanent health insurance or are unsure how long you'll need coverage, choose a customized Individual Medical plan.

COBRA

If you need coverage for a chronic condition or need to preserve your rights to health insurance in the future, COBRA may be your best choice.

What best describes your situation?

Amy
Amy's job was just eliminated. She's 28 and in good health but needs insurance until she gets a new job with benefits.

 John
42 years old, John has some existing health conditions and was just laid off. He needs insurance until he can secure new permanent coverage.

Jennifer
Jennifer just left her job for a new full-time postion. She's 35 and healthy. She needs insurance for just  90 days.

 Will
Will is 63 and takes some medication but is generally healthy. He retired early and needs insurance until he joins Medicare in 15 months.
Rick
Rick was just laid off. He's 56 and diabetic. He's also overweight and has high blood pressure. He needs reliable insurance until he gets a new job with benefits.

*As of March1, 2009, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will pay 65% of COBRA premiums for workers involuntarily terminated between September 1, 2008, and December 31, 2009. The 65% subsidy is available for a maximum of nine months.