Real answers for your healthcare questions
What happens to my health insurance when I change jobs?
Answer
Changing jobs can create a temporary gap between your old employer coverage and your new employer plan. Your options depend on when the old coverage ends, when the new plan starts, and whether the new employer has a waiting period.
What to Know
You may be able to use COBRA, Marketplace coverage through a Special Enrollment Period, a spouse's plan, or another qualifying option during the transition. If the gap is short, compare the cost and practical value of each choice rather than assuming COBRA is the only path.
What to Do Next
Ask both employers for the exact coverage end and start dates before your last day. If there will be a gap, choose replacement coverage before the old plan ends whenever possible.
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