The higher premium subsidies are in effect for the 2021 and 2022 plan years.  For premiums you already paid in 2021, before the new law passed, you can claim the increased tax credit when you file your federal income tax return.

Yes.  When you file and reconcile your 2021 federal tax return, you will be able to collect the increased premium tax credit as a refundable tax credit.

No.  People lose eligibility for the COBRA premium subsidy when they become eligible for other job-based health coverage.  You are required to notify your former employer or COBRA administrator if you become eligible for other job-based health coverage.  If you do not, you might owe a penalty.

You can continue on COBRA unsubsidized until your 18 months of COBRA eligibility ends. In addition, you will have the option to enroll in marketplace coverage when the subsidy ends in September.  Loss of the COBRA subsidy will make you eligible for a special enrollment period (SEP) to sign up for marketplace coverage.  If you make your plan selection before the end of September, new marketplace coverage will take effect on October 1. 

Yes, eligibility for COBRA does not affect your eligibility for Medicaid or vice versa.  Medicaid also offers premium-free coverage (in some states Medicaid charges a nominal monthly premium for some adults) with no or nominal cost sharing.  As you consider options, you will want to compare provider networks, cost sharing, covered benefits, other plan features. If you elect COBRA, remember the subsidy ends no later than September 30, 2021.  If income remains at or below…