How Long Does Health Insurance Last After Quitting A Job? 
People can keep their health insurance by signing up for COBRA coverage . COBRA stands for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act and is most commonly used when an employee leaves a job where they had employer-sponsored health insurance , usually after being laid off or leaving the group on their own terms . In short , COBRA is an extension of the current group health insurance plan offered to employees after they have left the company . This coverage can be kept for up to 18 months and is only available to individuals and families covered under a plan with more than 20 employees enrolled . Premiums for COBRA coverage are 102 % of the total cost of insurance this is important because many employers pay for part of the cost while the employee is still working . Under the Affordable Care Act , health insurance policies are guaranteed-issue in that you can not be declined for health insurance due to a pre-existing condition or other health-related issue . Coming off of group coverage would generally grant you a special enrollment period to apply for health insurance in the marketplace . If you 'd like some help with your coverage , send me a message by clicking on the `` contact me '' button . 