Between jobs? Start with your coverage end date.

Separate the job end date from the insurance end date

Ask your benefits department when your health coverage actually ends and keep its written notice. Losing job-based coverage can open a Special Enrollment Period. HealthCare.gov generally allows 60 days after the loss to enroll; start checking before coverage ends.

Compare the options available to your household

Ask about a spouse’s employer coverage, Marketplace coverage, Medicaid or CHIP, and any COBRA offer. Compare premiums, doctors, prescriptions, and effective dates. Check the enrollment consequences before ending COBRA voluntarily.

Use your expected income for the whole year

A gap between jobs does not necessarily mean your annual household income is zero. Include what you earned already and what you reasonably expect for the rest of the year. Update your application when your next job or coverage changes.

Bring these questions

• What date does my current coverage end?
• What does my COBRA offer cost, and when must I decide?
• When does coverage at my next job begin?