COBRA vs Marketplace vs Private PPO: What to Do Right After You Lose Employer Coverage
Quick guide to COBRA vs Marketplace vs Private PPO—costs, networks, and when each wins. We’ll verify your doctors and show clear prices.
COBRA vs Marketplace vs Private PPO: What to Do Right After You Lose Employer Coverage
Laid off, new job, or between jobs? Here’s the fast, practical guide—costs, networks, deadlines, and how to decide in minutes. We’ll verify your doctors and show clear costs.
COBRA (keep your old plan)
- Same network/benefits you already know.
- Usually most expensive (you pay full premium + 2%).
- Time-limited (18 months); retroactive if elected on time.
- Good when in treatment and changing plans is risky.
Marketplace (Government)
- May be cheapest if your income qualifies for credits.
- Many plans are HMO/EPO; referrals are common.
- Mid-year move allowed due to loss of coverage.
- Credits reconcile at tax time—under-reporting income can create payback.
Private PPO (Licensed Access)
- Nationwide PPO when eligible; keep specialists/hospitals.
- Typically no referrals; fewer hoops.
- Advance premium tax credits do not apply to Private PPOs.
- Pricing = age, ZIP, benefits, and network.
- Great when you travel or want doctor choice.
What tends to cost more—and why
Why COBRA is often pricey
- You pay the entire employer premium + 2% admin fee.
- Large-group plan designs can carry higher OOP maxes.
- No income-based help.
How non-Marketplace Private PPO prices
- Based on age, ZIP, network size, and benefits.
- Good fits: provider choice, travel, specialist access, fewer referrals.
- We verify your doctors before you switch.
How to decide in minutes
Pick COBRA if…
- You’re mid-treatment and can’t risk network changes.
- You can stomach short-term higher premiums.
- You need exactly the same plan and doctors right now.
Pick Private PPO if…
- You want nationwide PPO and typically no referrals.
- You travel, use specialists, or dislike gatekeepers.
- Credits don’t help you—or you prefer not to use them.
We’ll compare all three with your doctors and meds, then show clear side-by-side costs.
Want the best post-employer fit in your ZIP?
We’ll verify your doctors and meds, compare COBRA vs Marketplace vs Private PPO, and show clear costs. No pressure—just answers.
FAQ
How long do I have to elect COBRA?
Generally 60 days from the notice. If elected in time, coverage can be retroactive to the loss date (you’d owe premiums).
Can I switch from COBRA to other coverage later?
Yes. Marketplace: during Open Enrollment (or another qualifying event). Private PPO: typically year-round if you’re eligible. We’ll time it so there are no gaps.
Do Private PPOs use ACA tax credits?
No. Private PPOs don’t use ACA advance premium tax credits (APTC). Marketplace plans do, and those credits reconcile at tax time—under-reporting income can create payback.
How do I know if my doctors are covered?
Send your provider list. We check your doctors against the specific plan network you choose so you know before you switch.
How do we start?
Share your doctors, prescriptions, and budget. We’ll map options and enroll you quickly and compliantly.
This overview is educational, not tax or legal advice. Availability varies by state and carrier. Eligibility and enrollment subject to plan terms.