Comments on: What Is COBRA Health Insurance?

By: Mike Macey

Mike Macey — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 04:35:46 +0000

You only have 63 days between coverage to be accepted with new insurance. If you do not get coverage, your new insurance company may deny or place a waiver on your pre-existing condition. If you receive either, 42 states have guaranteed issue health insurance plans. Contrary to health care reform claims about lack of coverage for pre-existing conditions, only eight (8) states lack such coverage. where do you live?

By: David

David — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:08:00 +0000

To me, COBRA has always stood for “rip-off”. Anyone I have ever known that has looked into it has come away with the fact that it is insanely expensive.

I know that sometimes job loss is inevitable, but to me, the best option is to avoid getting yourself into a situation where you need it.

If that is unavoidable, exhaust and research every other option out there before opting for COBRA. I would think you could find something else out there at a more reasonable price.

By: Mike

Mike — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:18:17 +0000

Thanks David…

By: david

david — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:13:46 +0000

The short answer is no. Companies with group plans normally cover everyone regardless of pre-existing conditions – its part of how group plans work. There might be a waiting period for coverage of your condition, but normally you will be covered under the new plan.

By: Mike

Mike — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:42:32 +0000

I have a question regarding this… not so much COBRA, but continuity of coverage, that maybe you can answer.

If I have a condition that I gained at this job, and I leave here for another position which causes a small lapse in coverage, would the new employer’s insurance be able to deny me coverage for “pre-existing condition”?