Can I cancel COBRA coverage at any time?

Asked by: Dejah Franecki  |  Last update: May 31, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (45 votes)

Yes, you can cancel COBRA coverage at any time. However, be aware that cancellation does not trigger a special enrollment period for new health insurance.

How do I cancel my COBRA coverage?

There are three ways to do so:
  1. Terminate coverage on your online account. For instructions, see How to terminate coverage in your COBRA online account.
  2. Submit a completed COBRA Benefits Termination Form.
  3. Do not remit the premium payment for the month you no longer want coverage.

Can you end COBRA early?

Keep in mind if you choose to terminate your COBRA continuation coverage early with no special enrollment opportunity at that time, you generally will have to wait to enroll in other coverage until the next open enrollment period for the new group health plan or the Marketplace.

Is canceling COBRA considered a qualifying event?

However, you won't qualify if you decide to end COBRA early and are paying the full benefit cost yourself. You also don't qualify if you lose your COBRA coverage because you didn't pay your premiums. Remember, you don't need a special enrollment period if you voluntarily end COBRA during open enrollment.

What are the disadvantages of cobra insurance?

COBRA coverage is not cheap. Why? Because you're now responsible for paying your portion of your health insurance: The cost your employer contributed to your premium, in addition to the 2% service fee on the cost of your insurance.

How To Cancel COBRA Insurance | cancel cobra insurance plan

26 related questions found

What is the 60 day loophole for COBRA?

You have 60 days to enroll in COBRA once your employer-sponsored benefits end. Even if your enrollment is delayed, you will be covered by COBRA starting the day your prior coverage ended.

Is COBRA worth the money?

But ultimately, it depends on your situation. If you're not eligible for government subsidies and the costs of COBRA and ACA are similar, or if you've used up the deductible on your employer insurance before you leave your job, it might make sense for you to do a COBRA plan.

Can COBRA be Cancelled without notice?

If the group decides to terminate continuation coverage early, the plan must provide an early termination notice as soon as is reasonable following the decision.

Can I switch from COBRA to private insurance?

You can only drop COBRA and sign up for a Marketplace plan and premium tax credits during Open Enrollment. You will have to drop your COBRA coverage effective on the date your new Marketplace plan coverage begins.

Can I cancel my insurance at any time?

You can cancel your plan anytime if you purchased self-only or family coverage on the individual health insurance market. However, you can typically only select a new health plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period.

Can I decline COBRA?

You must decide to accept or reject COBRA coverage during a certain time period (usually 60 days after your employer notifies you). You must pay your monthly premiums or you can lose your coverage. Once you have used up all your COBRA benefits, you may be able to get an extension of coverage under Cal-COBRA.

What are the rules for COBRA coverage?

COBRA eligibility has three basic requirements that must be met for you to get a continuation of coverage:
  • Your group health plan must be covered by COBRA.
  • A qualifying event must occur.
  • You must be a qualified beneficiary for that event.

How expensive is COBRA?

The average monthly cost of COBRA Insurance premiums ranges from $400 to $700 per individual.

Can you drop COBRA at any time?

If you enroll in COBRA coverage and the special-enrollment period described above lapses, you cannot cancel your COBRA coverage and enroll in a Covered California health plan until 1) your COBRA coverage is exhausted, 2) you have a different qualifying life event for special enrollment, or 3) the next annual open- ...

Can COBRA premiums be refunded?

Request a Refund for Amounts Paid in COBRA Premiums Exceeding Federal Employment Tax Liability: The employer may claim the Credit through an employment tax refund on the applicable employment tax return, generally Form 941, Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return.

What happens if I elect COBRA but don't pay?

There is no grace period if you're late paying your initial COBRA premium payment. 3 If it isn't paid on time (ie, within 45 days of electing COBRA), you lose your right to have COBRA coverage; you'll have to find other health insurance options or you'll be uninsured.

How do I stop my COBRA coverage?

How To Cancel COBRA Coverage. To cancel your COBRA plan you will need to notify your previous employer or the plan administrator in writing, requesting to terminate the insurance. The plan administrator is also who you've made your premium payments to.

How does COBRA affect taxes?

Are my COBRA premiums deductible? Yes they are tax deductible as a medical expense. There isn't necessarily a “COBRA Tax Deduction”. You can only deduct the amount of COBRA medical expenses on your federal income tax in excess of 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income and then only if you itemize deductions.

What do I do if COBRA is too expensive?

If COBRA feels expensive, consider ACA plans or short-term health insurance. Marketplace plans during the open enrollment period or a special enrollment period can offer more budget-friendly options.

What is the penalty for COBRA notice?

Failing to adhere to COBRA rules can result in costly penalties. The Department of Labor may impose fines of $110 per day per qualified beneficiary for non-compliance with notice requirements, and the IRS can levy excise taxes for violations.

Is cancelling COBRA a qualifying event?

No, stopping payment for COBRA coverage is not considered a qualifying event.

Can I still use COBRA if I quit my job?

Cal-COBRA is a California Law that lets you keep your group health plan when your job ends or your hours are cut.

What is the largest disadvantage of COBRA?

The primary concern with COBRA is the cost. Paying the full premium can be a significant financial burden, especially during a period of job loss. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider: High Cost: COBRA premiums can be expensive, particularly if you have a family plan.

Which is cheaper, COBRA or Obamacare?

COBRA lets you keep your exact employer-based plan but is often more expensive. ACA plans may be more affordable, especially with subsidies, but require choosing a new plan. The best choice depends on your financial situation and healthcare needs.

Can I pay for one month of COBRA?

However, if you only need COBRA coverage for a short period of time, such as one or two months, you can pay only for those months from the coverage loss date.