Who gets COBRA?

My husband works for a very small company – nine employees.  He is considering leaving the company to start his own firm.  What will happen to my health insurance if he does that?  I have a chronic condition and do not want to be uninsured.

Concerned in Connecticut

Dear Concerned in Connecticut,

A company with only nine employees is not required by federal rules to offer COBRA continuation coverage.  The majority of states, however, have COBRA rules for employers with fewer than 20 employees.  Connecticut requires all employers to offer COBRA.  So you will be able to continue your health insurance for 18 months, paying 102 percent of the cost.  Be glad that you do not live in Vermont – in that state, small employer COBRA coverage lasts only six months.

After the 18 months, you will need to find another health plan — either on your own as an individual or through your employer.  Or your husband’s new firm may be able to offer a plan.

Here’s to your husband’s success in his new venture!

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.