Cockatoo guide

COBRA: US continuation health coverage

COBRA concerns continuation of specified US employer health coverage when qualifying conditions are met.

COBRA concerns continuation of specified US employer health coverage when qualifying conditions are met.

The distinction that matters

It is not an Australian continuation right or a replacement for local Medicare and private health assessment.

What to check

  • Check plan eligibility and election deadlines.
  • Review premium obligations.
  • Assess local cover when relocating.

Example to discuss

A departing employee checks the US plan notice rather than assuming continuation is automatic or free.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Jurisdiction and scope

US health-plan and tax terminology must be read within the US framework. Australian Medicare, private health insurance and employer benefits have separate rules. The linked Australian source is a local comparison reference, not evidence that the US arrangement exists here.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide