Lost Your Job? Here’s How to Keep Your Health Insurance

Losing your job is stressful enough—but losing your health insurance at the same time? That can feel overwhelming. The good news is that you may still qualify for affordable health coverage through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

If you’ve recently been laid off, furloughed, or had your work hours reduced, you don’t have to go without health insurance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through your healthcare options, how to save money on coverage, and why acting fast is crucial.

Can You Keep Health Insurance After Job Loss?

Yes! Losing your job-based health insurance triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), meaning you have a limited time to enroll in a new health plan outside of the normal Open Enrollment Period.

You have 60 days from the day you lose coverage to sign up for a new plan. If you miss this window, you may have to wait until the next Open Enrollment period, leaving you uninsured and vulnerable to high medical costs.

What Are Your Health Insurance Options?

✅ Marketplace Health Plans (Affordable Care Act - ACA)

• You may qualify for low-cost or subsidized health coverage based on your income.

• Financial assistance can lower your monthly premiums significantly.

• Covers essential health benefits like doctor visits, prescriptions, and preventive care.

✅ Medicaid & CHIP (Free or Low-Cost Coverage)

• If your income has dropped, you may qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

• Coverage is free or very low-cost, depending on your income level.

• Provides comprehensive healthcare coverage, including prescriptions and hospital visits.

✅ COBRA Coverage (Keep Your Employer’s Plan – But It’s Expensive!)

• Allows you to keep your employer-provided health plan for up to 18 months.

• You pay the full premium, plus an administrative fee—often making this the most expensive option.

✅ Short-Term Health Plans (Temporary Coverage with Limits)

• Offers basic coverage but often excludes pre-existing conditions and preventive care.

• Usually doesn’t cover mental health, maternity care, or prescription drugs.

• Works as a short-term solution, but may leave you vulnerable to unexpected medical costs.

  
  

Why You Need Health Insurance After Job Loss

🚑 Medical Emergencies Are Costly – A simple hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars without insurance.

💊 Prescriptions & Routine Care Matter – Without coverage, essential medications and doctor visits may be unaffordable.

💰 You May Qualify for Subsidies – Many people don’t realize they’re eligible for huge discounts on Marketplace plans.

How to Enroll in a Health Plan After Losing Your Job

📌 Step 1: Check Your Eligibility – Find out if you qualify for a Marketplace plan, Medicaid, or CHIP.

📌 Step 2: Apply Within 60 Days – You must enroll within your Special Enrollment Period to avoid coverage gaps.

📌 Step 3: Compare Plans & Costs – Look at monthly premiums, deductibles, and covered benefits to choose the best plan.

📌 Step 4: Get Expert Help (For Free!) – Health insurance can be confusing, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.

🚀 Need help finding the right health plan? 

Call Selena Witherspoon at 888-735-3620 or send a message to get expert advice—for FREE!

Act Now – Your Health Coverage Window is Closing!

Time is limited! If you’ve recently lost your job, don’t wait.

The Special Enrollment Period (SEP) lasts only 60 days, so the sooner you act, the better.