Is COBRA coverage ending a qualifying life event?

What is a qualifying life event?

A Qualifying Life Event (QLE) is any significant change in your circumstances that makes you eligible to alter your health plan or enroll in a new one. When you have a qualifying QLE, you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This SEP allows you to sign up for a health plan outside the annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which runs from November 1 to January 15. QLEs are determined by the federal government and include events such as marriage, childbirth, aging off a parent's plan, and losing employer-based coverage. 

Is COBRA coverage ending a qualifying life event?

Yes, the end of COBRA coverage is considered a qualifying life event, as is the loss of job-based coverage. Typically, individuals can remain on COBRA for about 18 to 36 months before their coverage ends, triggering a SEP. However, it's important to note:

• This QLE only applies to planned COBRA end dates
• Losing COBRA coverage due to non-payment of premiums does not qualify you for a SEP

What happens when COBRA coverage ends?

Getting health coverage after COBRA ends

Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace to find the right individual and family health plan can feel overwhelming. It's a significant decision for you and your dependents, so it's essential to gather all the necessary information before making a choice.

Priority Health's Learning Center offers a wealth of resources to help you understand various health plans and the terminology used. We also provide guidance on how to save on health coverage through federal tax subsidies.

We also have health plan experts on our team who are available to answer your questions in-depth and talk with you about the options available. Call 844.590.0836.

Factors to consider when choosing a health plan

When selecting a health plan on the Marketplace, consider the following:

• Any chronic health conditions you may have
• Prescription drugs you currently take
• Frequency of doctor or specialist visits
• Importance of keeping your current provider
• Additional benefits like hearing aids or gym memberships

Why choose Priority Health?

Priority Health is a Michigan-based company recognized for quality, customer service, transparency and innovation. Our health plans focus on improving members' health while keeping costs affordable. We've provided high-quality health plans to Michigan residents for over three decades. Our MyPriority^® plans help you take control of your health at an affordable price.

See all of the benefits that bring value to a MyPriority plan. We provide chronic condition coverage before your deductible is met and our mobile app allows customers to manage their health plan, view personal information, find doctors, track spending and use tools to save on care costs. 

Talk to the experts at Priority Health

Is your COBRA coverage ending? Contact the experts at Priority Health to explore the health plans available during the Special Enrollment Period. Call 844.590.0836 for more information.

Frequently asked questions

When is open enrollment?

The annual Open Enrollment Period runs from November 1 through January 15 for health coverage for the following year. If you enroll by December 15 your coverage begins January 1. If you enroll between December 16 and January 15, your coverage begins February 1. After January 15, you can only enroll or change your health coverage if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

What are the other qualifying life events?

Loss of qualifying health coverage Birth of a child Marriage Adoption Foster care placement Guardianship

Moving to a different coverage area Gaining U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration status Aging off a parent's plan Losing eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP Death of the policyholder