How long can I wait to elect COBRA?

60 days, and it's retroactive — you can wait, get sick, then elect and pay back premiums.

Leaving a job with health benefits?

COBRA Gap Coverage — What Fills It? (US)

Short-term medical, ACA marketplace with special enrollment, or catastrophic plans. Each has trade-offs. Depends on state and health status.

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The short answer

Job loss triggers a Special Enrollment Period (60 days) for ACA marketplace plans — usually cheaper than COBRA with subsidies. Short-term medical is fast and cheap but excludes pre-existing conditions and is banned in some states. COBRA is expensive (full premium + 2%) but preserves your exact plan and network — worth it mid-treatment.

Frequently asked

How long can I wait to elect COBRA?: 60 days, and it's retroactive — you can wait, get sick, then elect and pay back premiums.

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Stop guessing. Check your actual policy.

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