COBRA Health Insurance
Learn all about COBRA health insurance options and how to qualify. Or, enter your zip code below to browse for more affordable alternatives to COBRA available in your area.
Understanding COBRA Health Insurance
How much does COBRA health insurance cost?
Is there a cheaper alternative to COBRA health insurance?
How does COBRA health insurance work?
COBRA allows you to keep your health insurance if you lose your job. Apply for coverage within 60 days of job loss to qualify for coverage.
Under COBRA, individuals can extend the coverage they had from their employer for up to 18 months (this can be longer in some states). However, the plan is no longer sponsored by your employer, so you are responsible for paying the entire monthly premium for the duration of your extended coverage.
COBRA benefits also apply to your spouse or dependents that were covered by your employer-sponsored plan.
Who qualifies for COBRA health insurance?
You may qualify for COBRA if you experience a qualifying event that causes you to lose your employer sponsored health insurance. Some qualifying events include:
- Quitting
- Getting fired, unless it was for gross misconduct
- Having your hours reduced which made you ineligible for benefits
Dependents can qualify for COBRA too. Some qualifying events that would allow dependents to qualify for COBRA include:
- The death of a covered employee
- Losing dependent status as an adult child (turning 26)
- Divorce or legal separation
- A covered employee becoming eligible for Medicare
How long does COBRA health insurance last?
COBRA Medical Insurance Statistics
Consider the following when deciding between COBRA health coverage or an individual health insurance plan.
COBRA coverage typically lasts 18 months, but can be longer
You have 60 days from the day you lose coverage to apply for COBRA
COBRA is month-to-month, so you can cancel any time
COBRA lets you stay on your same insurance plan
eHealth is an authorized federal government partner.
Looking to purchase individual health insurance instead of COBRA coverage?
eHealth offers a broad selection of health plans for individuals and families. Purchasing your own private health insurance plan can save you money. Use our resources below to find the coverage option that's right for you.
Shop Health Insurance By State
Browse private health insurance by state to find individual and family plans available in your area.