I’m leaving my job and will be eligible for COBRA. Can I shop for coverage and subsidies on the Marketplace instead?

Yes, leaving your job and losing eligibility for job-based health coverage will trigger a special enrollment opportunity that lasts for 60 days to enroll in Marketplace coverage. Depending on your income, you may also be eligible for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions.

If you choose to enroll in COBRA coverage through your former employer, however, you will need to wait until the next Marketplace Open Enrollment period if you want to switch to a Marketplace plan. You may want to look at your Marketplace options before enrolling in COBRA.