We know the COBRA regulations can be confusing for both employers and former employers. You are not alone, help is on our user board.

Compare COBRA to Individual Health Insurance

If you are healthy, there is no reason to extend your benefits under COBRA, because with private health insurance:

• Premiums are lower
• Little legislative risks
• Don't have to wait on notification
• No expiration of benefits
• You can only be canceled for nonpayment
• More flexibility with doctors
• Don't need a "qualifying event" to become eligible

The cost of COBRA is high because

• The government doesn't set a cap on the premiums
• Like your exisitng group health, companies must cover everyone, regardless of health
• Instead of ending a policy within 30 days, a company doing group health must give you coverage for a period of 18 to 36 months
• The employer no longer pays the majority of your premiums

Ways to save on private health insurance:

• Higher copayments
• PPO instead of HMO
• Higher out of pocket max
• Compare 3 companies
• Use an independent agent