COBRA Insurance Knowledge Base
Everything you need to understand your COBRA rights — eligibility, costs, enrollment deadlines, and how to compare affordable alternatives.
What is COBRA?
COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, a federal law enacted in 1986. It gives workers and their families who lose their health benefits the right to choose to continue group health benefits provided by their group health plan for limited periods of time under certain circumstances.
COBRA applies to employers with 20 or more employees who sponsor group health plans. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, your state may have a "Mini-COBRA" law that provides similar protections.
The key benefit of COBRA is continuity — you keep the exact same plan, network, and benefits you had as an active employee. The downside is cost: you pay the full premium (employer + employee share) plus a 2% administrative fee.
Qualifying Events for COBRA
Eligibility & Costs
Who Is Eligible?
- Covered employees who lose job-based coverage
- Spouses of covered employees
- Dependent children of covered employees
- Retirees and their families (in some cases)
Typical COBRA Costs
Estimates vary by plan, region, and employer. Contact us for a personalized comparison.
Is COBRA too expensive for your budget?
Compare ACA plans, short-term coverage, and other affordable options.
COBRA Enrollment Timeline
Qualifying Event
Job loss, reduction in hours, divorce, or other qualifying event occurs.
Employer Notifies Plan
Your employer must notify the plan administrator within 30 days; the administrator then has 14 days to send your election notice.
Election Window
You have 60 days from the later of coverage loss or receipt of the notice to elect COBRA.
First Premium Due
After electing, you have 45 days to pay your first premium. Coverage is retroactive to the date it ended.
Coverage Period
18 months for job loss/hours reduction; up to 36 months for other qualifying events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Call us at 844-569-1234.
Still have questions about COBRA?
Navigating coverage rules and deadlines can be overwhelming. Our licensed advisors offer free, educational reviews to help you understand your options and compare costs.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Our licensed advisors can walk you through COBRA enrollment or help you find a more affordable alternative — at no cost to you.