How to Cancel Cobra to Go on Florida Medicaid

If you have ever lost your job, you may already be familiar with COBRA. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 requires employers to provide workers the right to keep their current health insurance plan under certain circumstances. Employees who lose their jobs, whether involuntarily or not, have the option to continue their health insurance benefits by paying the premium. Florida Medicaid is a less expensive alternative to COBRA. If you qualify for and want to use Medicaid, you will need to cancel COBRA.

Instructions

• 1

  Use the pre-screening tool to determine eligibility. Visit the Florida Department of Children and Families Access Florida website to complete the short questionnaire to see if you qualify for Medicaid coverage. You will need to supply basic information pertaining to your household, such as the number of adults and children, income, assets and monthly expenses.

• 2

  Register to apply for Medicaid. Once your determine you are eligible to receive benefits, register to create an Access account. You will be asked to provide your name and Social Security number. Create a user name and password.

• 3

  Click the section titled "apply for benefits." You will be asked to provide personal and financial information for all household members. Have Social Security numbers, pay stubs, bank account numbers and account balances on hand. The application requires you to list all assets and any asset transfers within the past three years. List housing and housing-related expenses, such as utilities. When asked if you currently have insurance coverage, check the box "yes." Enter the amount you pay for coverage each month.

• 4

  Submit the application and wait for a response. According to the site, a Medicaid application can take up to 45 days for review. A caseworker may contact you to request additional information.

• 5

  Contact COBRA to cancel your coverage when you are approved for Medicaid. Submit a written request to cancel coverage addressed to your former employer or plan administrator.

• 6

  Check the mail for a letter notifying you of the cancellation. You will also receive a certificate of credible coverage.