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COBRA Election Checklist

A checklist for deciding whether to elect COBRA continuation coverage, comparing it against Marketplace options, and meeting the election deadline.

Health Insurance4 min readReviewed 2026-09-22

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Short answer

Electing COBRA means continuing your exact same employer coverage, generally at full cost -- comparing that real quote against a Marketplace plan, and meeting your election deadline, are the two things that matter most.

Use this before you call.

Weighing COBRA against a Marketplace plan? Call GetFastRates.com to compare your real numbers.

Confirm your COBRA election deadline -- generally 60 days from your notice date.

Get your real COBRA premium quote from the plan administrator.

Compare that quote against Marketplace plan options and any subsidy you might qualify for.

Check whether your doctors and prescriptions are covered the same way on each option.

Call before your deadline if you're still deciding between COBRA and a new plan.

COBRA keeps your exact plan, at your real cost

Electing COBRA means keeping the identical coverage, network, and benefits you already had -- but generally at the full premium, since your employer is no longer contributing toward it.

The election window doesn't wait for a decision

You generally have 60 days from your COBRA notice to elect coverage, and if you do, it can typically be applied retroactively to your coverage-loss date -- but missing the window closes the option entirely.

Losing job-based coverage also opens a separate 60-day Marketplace Special Enrollment Period
Comparing both options with real numbers before deciding is worth the time

Common questions about this topic

Is COBRA always more expensive than a Marketplace plan?

Often, but not always -- it depends on your specific COBRA premium and whether you qualify for a Marketplace subsidy. Comparing real numbers is the only reliable way to know.

Can I switch from COBRA to a Marketplace plan later?

Generally only during the annual Open Enrollment Period or if you have a new qualifying event -- COBRA itself running out is one such event. It's not something you can typically switch out of anytime.

Tools that can help

ACA Subsidy EstimatorEstimate marketplace subsidy amounts based on your household and income.COBRA vs. Marketplace Cost ComparisonCompare COBRA continuation costs against ACA Marketplace options.Can I Get Health Insurance Right Now?Check whether your situation qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period.

Trusted public sources

These links are provided for general public information. They do not replace a personal coverage review.

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