There are many reasons the health insurance you get through your employer might end. Maybe your job is ending or your hours have been cut. Maybe you'd like to leave your job but are afraid to lose your insurance.

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A law called COBRA can help you keep your employer's insurance after changes like these. You have to pay the whole premium. But the cost and benefits may still be better than what you would get if you bought health insurance on your own.

Through COBRA, your spouse can keep coverage for up to 18 months. After a divorce or your death, your spouse or child can be covered through COBRA for 36 months. A child who no longer qualifies as a dependent can also get COBRA for 36 months.

How To Get COBRA

Make sure you get an "election" notice from your employer about your right to get COBRA and follow the directions carefully. You should get this notice within 44 days after your job change. If you don't get your notice or you have questions, call your Member Services or talk to your employer.

Ask your HMO or employer about COBRA if your job is ending or your hours are being cut.
Make sure you meet the deadlines for signing up for COBRA, Cal-COBRA or Senior COBRA.
Pay your premiums on time or you will lose your coverage.
If you move out of your HMO's service area, or if your former employer stops offering health insurance to its employees, you will lose your COBRA or Senior COBRA.
COBRA may cover you longer if you qualify as disabled during the first 2 months you're on COBRA.

HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling, Advocacy Program)
Information about Senior COBRA
(800) 434-0222

HMO Help Center Information about Cal-COBRA
(888) HMO-2219 www.hmohelp.ca.gov

U.S. Department of Labor, PWBA
Information about COBRA and HIPAA
(866) 275-7922