How does COBRA work for continuing my health insurance coverage?

With employer-sponsored coverage, the company you work for typically covers part of your health insurance premiums. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, or COBRA, is a federal program that lets you get the same coverage you had through your employer by paying the entire premium yourself. 

You qualify for insurance through COBRA if you are leaving a job with 20 or more employees and your health insurance was canceled in the last 60 days.  The insurance coverage extension through COBRA can last anywhere from 18 to 36 months.

For more about qualifying for COBRA coverage, ask your employer’s benefits representative. You can also visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.