What is COBRA?

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) is a federal law that allows employees and their families to temporarily continue their employer-sponsored health insurance after experiencing qualifying events like job loss, reduction in work hours, divorce, or death of the covered employee. COBRA coverage typically lasts 18-36 months, depending on the qualifying event, but requires individuals to pay the full premium plus a 2% administrative fee.

Why COBRA matters

• Maintains continuous coverage: Prevents gaps in health insurance during life transitions
• Preserves existing benefits: Allows you to keep the same doctors, coverage levels, and provider networks
• Protects pre-existing conditions: Ensures continued coverage for ongoing medical treatments

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you understand COBRA eligibility and costs, compare COBRA to marketplace alternatives, and ensure proper enrollment within required timeframes. Advocates can also assist with premium payment issues and help transition to new coverage when COBRA expires.