With the downturn in the economy and the increased number of people facing layoffs, it is important to know that your medical coverage can continue if you are eligible for COBRA health benefits. If your job is terminated between September 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009, you and your family may be able to join COBRA and pay a reduced premium for nine months at a group rate which is usually lower than what an individual would pay. This government subsidy allows former employees to maintain their health care coverage, sometimes with pre-existing conditions which could include injuries related to the workplace. This subsidized plan is not available if the company closed or went bankrupt. For more information, see the Department of Labor webpage: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/faqs/faq_consumer_cobra.HTML
This article was written by Todd P. Oxner
