Changing or Losing a Job: Insurance Checklist

Short answer: Before your last day, find out when your employer health, life and disability coverage ends. Then line up replacement coverage: COBRA (at least 60 days to elect, generally 18 months), a Marketplace plan (a 60-day window after coverage ends), or the new employer's plan. Ask about converting or porting group life and disability, which often must be done within a short window.

Health insurance

• [ ] Ask HR for the end date. Some plans run through the end of the month.
• [ ] COBRA: you get at least 60 days to elect, and coverage after a job loss or cut in hours generally lasts up to 18 months (U.S. Department of Labor). You'll usually pay the full premium plus an administrative fee.
• [ ] Marketplace: losing job-based coverage opens a 60-day special enrollment period. You can apply up to 60 days before coverage ends. Coverage generally starts the first of the month after you pick a plan (HealthCare.gov).
• [ ] New employer: check for a waiting period and cover the gap with one of the above.

Life and disability

• [ ] Group life: many policies let you convert to an individual policy or port the coverage, usually within a short window, often about 31 days. Ask HR for the deadline.
• [ ] Group disability: ask about conversion. If you're going self-employed, price individual disability insurance.
• [ ] Check whether a new employer's group coverage needs evidence of insurability above certain amounts.

Auto

• [ ] A longer or shorter commute, or no commute, can change your rating. Update your annual mileage.
• [ ] Using your car for gig work, deliveries or rideshare needs proper coverage. See our rideshare and delivery guide.
• [ ] Return any company car and confirm your personal policy covers your own vehicle.

Going self-employed

• [ ] General liability or professional liability for your new business.
• [ ] A home business endorsement or business policy, since homeowners policies limit business property and liability.
• [ ] Workers' comp once you hire. See requirements by state.

Bottom line

The deadlines that matter most are the 60-day health windows and the short life insurance conversion window. Write them on your calendar before your last day.

Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea disability insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.