Health Insurance: A Bit of Good COBRA News
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PrintPersonal finance guru Steve Zimmerman brings us some welcome good news that may help you keep health insurance if you're laid off.
In our February special layoff issue [4], Personal Finance focused on alternatives to paying enormously high COBRA payments [5]. COBRA enables laid off workers to retain their health insurance through their former employer for up to 18 months after they leave the organization. A Families USA [6]study shows what you probably already know if you've been laid off. The health advocacy group found that in 41 states, average COBRA payments amount to more than three-quarters of the average unemployment benefit!
Well, finally - some good news.
The recently enacted American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 [7] (stimulus package) offers relief for laid-off workers by offering a 65 percent federal subsidy on COBRA premiums for a period of 9 months.  If you were laid off after August 31, 2008, and before January 1, 2010, you will be responsible for only 35 percent of your COBRA payment. This new subsidy went into effect March 1.
Even if you declined COBRA coverage when you were let go because of the expense - or any other reason - you can go back and accept it now. COBRA coverage is available up to 18 months from your last day of work.
Organizations are required to let workers know of this change by April 18. But if your organization does not contact you, you may want to go ahead and call the human resources department.
Nonprofit employers to be reimbursed through payroll tax
Employers have to cover the remaining 65 percent but get reimbursed through their payroll tax form 941. Employers should consult with their payroll service or accountant for more information on how to claim this subsidy.
COBRA insurance is one of the only options available for older individuals or people with a history of health conditions. This new subsidy goes a long way to making it more affordable and possible to provide yourself and your family members with health insurance.
See also from Steve Zimmerman: When You Lose Your Health Insurance Coverage [5]
Have you struggled to hold on to your health insurance? Let other Blue Avocado readers know how you're coping (or not) in Comments.
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