How COBRA Works with Individual and Family Plans
If you currently have COBRA coverage or have access to it, be prepared to provide us with the coverage information when you call us to enroll. We don't have COBRA information from your employer.
If you are enrolled in COBRA from a previous employer and aren't Medicare-eligible, voluntarily leaving COBRA before it expires won't grant you a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). If you choose to leave your COBRA during your state's Open Enrollment Period, you'll be eligible to enroll in an individual plan with an effective date based on the date you apply during open enrollment. Please call us at 1-866-322-2824 (TTY: 711) to speak with a Via Benefits licensed benefit advisor* to discuss your options if you're considering leaving COBRA before the term ends.
Be prepared to provide the following information. It helps us find coverage that meets your needs and budget:
Your group plan deductible
How much you've already paid toward your group plan's deductible
How long your employer is offering COBRA coverage
Your COBRA coverage premium
COBRA Premium Reimbursement
Generally, if your reimbursement account permits premium reimbursements, you may be reimbursed for post-tax COBRA premiums. Pre-tax COBRA premium payments aren't reimbursable. Note: Not all employers allow COBRA premiums to be reimbursed.
If your employer subsidizes a portion of your COBRA premium, you may only be reimbursed for the amount you personally pay.
Because COBRA premiums require proof of payment each month, you must submit a monthly reimbursement request. Recurring Premium Reimbursement can't be used for COBRA premiums.
*Our licensed benefit advisors specialize in health insurance for retirees. They go through annual training and certification to ensure they can help you make an informed and confident decision.