Health Insurance After a Job Change

1. Confirm when coverage ends

Ask your employer or benefits administrator for the exact last day of active coverage and any continuation options. The last day of work and the last day of insurance may be different. Keep written notices about the change.

2. Compare the options available to you

You may be able to enroll in Marketplace coverage after losing qualifying job-based insurance. COBRA may let you continue the existing plan, often at a higher cost because you pay more of the premium. You may also have access to a spouse or partner's plan, or qualify for OHP or another public program. Eligibility and costs depend on your circumstances.

3. Check deadlines and effective dates

Loss of qualifying coverage may create a Special Enrollment Period, but deadlines, documentation, and when a new plan begins depend on the event and application. Contact the Marketplace as soon as you know coverage is ending. Do not cancel current coverage until you have confirmed when replacement coverage starts.

4. Compare the details that affect care

Check doctors, hospitals, prescriptions, premiums, deductibles, cost sharing, and the plan's effective date. For help comparing Marketplace options, use the same household and income details across plans.

Official information: HealthCare.gov: losing job-based coverage, Marketplace Special Enrollment Periods, and Oregon Explore Health.