Cobra info.

[maryrose 2]

I may be getting laid off. I do have a chance to sign on with my husbands insurance, but my insurance covers much more. I know it will be expensive, but for myself I really want to stay with my current Tufts plan, which has been great.

Does anyone know if the laws change from state to state? Is there a cut-off on how long you can stay on Cobra. Can they change the plan and not cover as much? I have been banded in April 07, but still need future visits, fills, etc.

Any information would be greatly appreciated. I'm just afraid I will stay with Tufts and then find out I should have gone with my husbands plan instead.

Thanks so much!

[Alexandra 55]

I may be getting laid off. I do have a chance to sign on with my husbands insurance, but my insurance covers much more. I know it will be expensive, but for myself I really want to stay with my current Tufts plan, which has been great.

Does anyone know if the laws change from state to state? Is there a cut-off on how long you can stay on Cobra. Can they change the plan and not cover as much? I have been banded in April 07, but still need future visits, fills, etc.

As I understand the Federal COBRA laws, you can stay on your plan (as long as the plan stays in existence) for up to 18 months at your own expense after you lose eligibility. The plan you continue on will be the same plan you were on as an active member; the group can't change your plan unless they are making overall changes to the entire group's plan.

Check with the HR department at Tufts, but I'm 98% sure that's the way it will work in your state as with all the others.