Losing Job-Based Health Insurance? Start Here

Understand the options available to you

HealthCare.gov identifies Marketplace coverage and COBRA continuation as two main options after losing job-based health insurance. Whether each option is available, when it can begin and what it costs need checking for your situation. Losing qualifying job-based coverage can open a Special Enrollment Period for Marketplace coverage.

Check timing before deciding

Ask about application deadlines and the start date of any replacement plan. Do not assume that coverage starts as soon as you apply. If you already have COBRA, check the rules before ending it or switching coverage.

Have the useful details ready

A conversation is easier when you can refer to the documents rather than trying to remember them.

• Your current plan’s end date and loss-of-coverage notice.
• Any COBRA offer and the premium you would pay.
• The people in your household who need coverage.
• Your doctors, prescriptions and expected care needs.
• The income information requested for a Marketplace application.

Work through the decision with our team

We can help you understand the available coverage paths and the questions worth asking. Confirm eligibility, deadlines and effective dates before relying on a replacement plan.