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Learn about COBRA and your options
If COBRA coverage costs more than you can pay, explore your options with HealthPartners. We can help you understand what COBRA coverage is and if its right for you.
What is COBRA?
COBRA coverage:
- Allows you to keep your health plan through your employer for a limited period of time
- Provides coverage if you have a health condition or are currently pregnant
- Requires that you pay the full monthly premium – the amount you have paid plus the amount your employer has paid for you
COBRA is a right extended by federal law to protect you if you lose your employer-sponsored health plan.
Many people are eligible for COBRA coverage, but it is not available to all employees. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website for Frequently Asked Questions about COBRA.
Is COBRA right for me?
COBRA coverage is a good option for you or members of your family if you:
- Have or have had a health condition
- Are currently pregnant
- Have been declined for individual health insurance in the past
However, if you are in relative good health and are not pregnant, you may be able to get an individual plan with similar benefits to your COBRA coverage for less money.
What is the COBRA premium reduction ?
The COBRA premium reduction is part of the economic stimulus package that pays 65% of COBRA premiums for individuals who are involuntarily terminated between September 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009.
What you should know about the COBRA premium reduction
- You are not eligible if you retired or left voluntarily. If there is a dispute over your eligibility, visit the Department of Labor Web site to learn about how to file an appeal.
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You are not eligible if you have the option of using other group insurance coverage, like Medicare, insurance through a new employer or a spouse's plan.
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Your premium reduction will end after whichever comes first: you become eligible for other coverage, your COBRA eligibility ends (COBRA coverage is usually available for 18 months after your job ends) or after nine months.
Is the COBRA premium reduction right for me?
If you have a pre-existing health condition, yes. If not, you can probably get individual coverage for less than you would be paying for COBRA coverage, even with the premium reduction. However, even if you have good health, it's still a good idea to enroll in COBRA and then look for a less expensive individual plan – this will protect your right to guaranteed coverage in the future even if you develop a health problem.
HealthPartners has many affordable individual plans. We want to help you choose the option that works best for you. Explore our website or call to speak with a HealthPartners representative. HealthPartners plans are available in Minnesota only. If you live in another state, visit healthpartners.com/national for more information. If you are age 65 or older and/or eligible for Medicare, visit healthpartners.com/medicare for more information on plan options.
Before you make a decision about COBRA coverage, be sure to understand your situation and your options. Do not cancel or decline COBRA coverage until you have been accepted for a new health plan and receive the plan contract.
Why choose HealthPartners?
We have affordable plan options, quality coverage and excellent customer service. Plus we make it easy for you to find and apply for a plan that works best for you.
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