COBRA vs Marketplace Calculator
Compare health insurance costs after losing job-based coverage
COBRA vs. ACA Marketplace
COBRA
Coverage Duration
Up to 18 months
Sample Monthly Cost (Single)
~$850
Employer plan + 2% admin fee
Pros:
- Same coverage as before
- Keep same doctors
- No gaps in coverage
Cons:
- Often very expensive
- You pay full premium
ACA Marketplace
Coverage Duration
Ongoing
Sample Monthly Cost (Single)
~$320
With subsidy estimate
Pros:
- Often cheaper with subsidies
- Layoff qualifies for special enrollment
- 60-day enrollment window
Cons:
- Network may differ
- Benefits vary by plan tier
How to Decide
Choose COBRA if:
- ✓ You need continuous coverage immediately
- ✓ You're seeing specialists and need continuity
- ✓ Your employer subsidizes COBRA (reduces cost significantly)
- ✓ You're only transitioning for a few months
Choose Marketplace if:
- ✓ You expect significant reduction in income (increases subsidies)
- ✓ You need longer-term coverage (beyond 18 months)
- ✓ Cost savings are substantial
- ✓ You're open to new providers
What to Do Now
You have 60 days from job loss
Get your COBRA notice from your employer within 14 days. You can accept or decline during a 60-day election period.
Compare actual costs
Visit Healthcare.gov or your state exchange to get actual quotes. Plug in your expected 2024 income (may be $0 if unemployed).
Enroll on time
You have a 60-day special enrollment period after job loss. After that, you can only enroll during open enrollment (Nov–Jan).
Key Resources
Healthcare.gov
Official U.S. health insurance marketplace. Compare plans, get subsidies, check COBRA vs marketplace costs.
Your State Exchange
Some states run their own marketplaces with state-specific plans and support.
Employer COBRA Notice
Your employer must send you a COBRA notice within 14 days of job loss. This explains your rights and costs.
Patient Advocacy Groups
Organizations like Patient Advocate Foundation can help navigate coverage options.
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides simplified educational estimates only. COBRA costs, Marketplace subsidies, and plan availability vary significantly by employer, state, and individual circumstances. Always get actual quotes from Healthcare.gov or your state exchange before making decisions. Compare final costs, not estimates. LayoffNext does not provide insurance or healthcare advice.