The 60-Day COBRA Election Deadline
You have a limited window to elect COBRA. Missing it can leave you without coverage — but knowing the timeline gives you leverage to find better alternatives.
How the timeline works
Federal law gives you at least 60 days to decide whether to take COBRA. That clock usually starts on the date your coverage ends or the date your notice is sent, whichever is later.
Your job-based coverage ends, or you have another qualifying event.
Your employer or plan administrator usually sends your COBRA election notice.
You have 60 days from the later of the notice date or coverage end date to elect COBRA.
After you elect, you generally have 45 days to pay your first premium.
The retroactive coverage superpower
COBRA is retroactive
If you elect and pay within the legal timeframe, COBRA goes back to the day your job coverage ended. That means you are covered during the decision window if an emergency occurs, provided you elect and pay your back premiums.
Important traps to avoid
Need to compare your rates?
Compare COBRA against ACA Marketplace subsidies before your 60 days expire.
Have questions about your situation?
A licensed agent can explain your options with zero pressure.