Dealing with the loss of health insurance coverage

If your loved one loses health insurance coverage, you may need to work with them to help them find coverage. It is important to know where to turn for help.

• Those who lose health care coverage due to job loss may be able to maintain their coverage through COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act). COBRA is a federal law that may allow individuals and their families to pay to keep their health insurance, usually for up to18 months. This gives individuals time to find other options for health insurance coverage.
• See if your loved one is eligible for Medicare or Medicaid.
• People who lose their health insurance can choose to buy coverage from the Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace website will allow you to compare coverage plans based on cost, benefits, and other features that may meet certain individual needs. If you need to sign up outside of the open enrollment period, you may have several options.