Life changes
Lost your job? Keep getting your medication.
Losing work-based insurance is stressful, but you have more options than you might think, and deadlines that matter. Here’s what to do, in order.
- Don’t stop your medicationStopping suddenly can be dangerous for many drugs. If money is the problem, the options below can bridge the gap.
- Ask about a refill before coverage endsAsk your pharmacy whether your plan allows an early refill while you’re still covered.
- Compare your three main optionsCOBRA, a Marketplace plan or Medicaid. See the table below.
- Bridge any gapUse drugmaker programs, $35 insulin, $35 inhalers and cash prices. Our no-insurance guide walks through them.
- Build your planAdd your medications to My medicines and set it to “No insurance” to see what to do for each one.
Your three coverage options
| Option | Deadline | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| COBRA | Usually 60 days to elect | Keeps your exact plan, usually for up to 18 months, but you may pay up to 102% of the full premium. Coverage generally goes back to the day job coverage ended. |
| Marketplace plan | 60 days after coverage ends | Lower income can mean lower premiums. Apply at HealthCare.gov or your state’s site. |
| Medicaid | Apply any time | If your income has dropped, you may qualify. Most prescriptions cost little or nothing. |
Sources: HealthCare.gov, U.S. Department of Labor. Last checked October 1, 2026.
Common questions
How long do I have to sign up for COBRA?
Usually 60 days from when you get your COBRA notice or lose coverage, whichever is later. If you sign up in that window, coverage generally applies back to the day your job coverage ended.
How long do I have to get a Marketplace plan after losing job coverage?
You get a 60-day Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Marketplace plan at HealthCare.gov or your state’s site.
Can I get my medication while I have no insurance?
Yes. Drugmaker free-drug programs, $35 insulin and inhaler programs, cash-price pharmacies and community health centers can all help while you sort out coverage.
Get a heads-up when prices change
One short email when a new generic, price cap or program could lower what you pay. No spam, no selling your address.