How to Find Out About COBRA

If you're changing jobs or have recently lost your job, you might be able to keep your current health coverage for a limited period of time under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, commonly known as COBRA. This act requires companies with group health plans and at least 20 employees during the previous year to provide continued coverage for former employees who meet COBRA qualifications, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Because the monthly cost of COBRA can be much higher than the health insurance premiums you paid while employed, find out what it covers and whether there are any restrictions before you decide whether to buy coverage.

Things You'll Need

• Adobe Acrobat Reader

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Instructions

• 1

  Contact your company's Human Resources department to discuss COBRA. If you have received COBRA paperwork, read it carefully. Speak with a Human Resources employee if you have questions or need clarification.

• 2

  Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website. Read the section labeled "Frequently Asked Questions About COBRA." Open the PDF document "An Employee's Guide to Health Benefits Under COBRA."

• 3

  Phone the U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) at [phone] to request information or speak to a benefits advisor about COBRA. You can also fill out the contact form found on the EBSA website to submit questions by computer.

• 4

  Call or visit your local EBSA office. Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for a complete list of EBSA office locations and contact information.