Many people take for granted the benefits that their company provides them.  These benefits that are typically standard with a fulltime job usually include health insurance and sometimes dental and/or eye insurance.  If an employee is laid off from their job, they lose these benefits that their company provides since they are no longer an employee of the company and thus no longer eligible for the benefits.

COBRA

One of the programs the government has in place to help those in this situation is the COBRA program.  This program allows people to pay a fee to keep the health insurance that their employer provided.  You can be on COBRA for several months.  However, it is not always that affordable.  Currently, the government has a stimulus program in place to help supplement those who are in need of help.  However, the support is not permanent.

Other Plans Might Be Cost Effective

Researchers in the health industry say that sticking with a COBRA policy may not be the best option.  Apparently, there are other plans out there that may be more affordable.  They advise everyone to do their research to ensure they are getting not only the best price but also the best coverage.  This advice applies to those who are self-employed as well.