COBRA Isn't Your Only Choice — and Usually Not the Best One.
COBRA keeps your old job's plan, but you suddenly pay the full premium yourself — what your employer was paying, plus what you were paying, plus a small admin fee. For most families that's $700–$1,800 a month. There are almost always better paths. Meet Assistance will help you compare them in plain language.
When COBRA Actually Makes Sense
- You're in the middle of treatment with a specific provider on that exact plan
- You've nearly hit your deductible and want to keep the same plan year
- You only need coverage for 1–2 months before new employer benefits begin
Smarter Alternatives Worth Knowing
ACA marketplace plans with subsidy
Job loss = qualifying life event = Special Enrollment Period. With reduced household income, premium tax credits often bring a comparable plan down to $0–$200/month.
Short-term medical plans
Lower premiums, limited benefits. Good as a bridge for a few months when you don't expect to need much care.
Medicaid
If your income has dropped substantially, free coverage may be available immediately.
Spouse's employer plan
Job loss usually opens an SEP for your spouse's plan too — sometimes the simplest path.
A Side-by-Side Reality Check
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