Health Insurance Tools
COBRA vs. ACA Marketplace Comparison
Just lost job-based coverage? COBRA lets you keep your exact same plan at full cost; a Marketplace plan is new coverage that may come with a subsidy. Enter your COBRA premium quote to see the trade-off framed side by side.
This tool provides estimates only — it is not a quote and not an eligibility or subsidy determination. Final eligibility, premium tax credit amounts, and plan pricing are determined by HealthCare.gov (or your state marketplace) based on your complete application. Figures here are for general education; confirm your actual numbers before making a coverage decision.
Questions, answered
Is COBRA always more expensive than a Marketplace plan?
Not always, but often — COBRA means paying the full group premium (both your former employer's share and yours), plus up to a 2% administrative fee. A Marketplace plan is different coverage, but may qualify for a premium tax credit that lowers your net cost. The only way to know for sure is to compare both with your actual numbers.
Do I keep the same doctors and network on COBRA?
Yes — COBRA continues your exact same employer plan, including its network, for up to 18–36 months depending on the qualifying event. A Marketplace plan is a new plan, which may have a different network, so checking whether your doctors are in-network matters before you switch.
Can I switch from COBRA to a Marketplace plan later?
Losing job-based coverage (including electing not to continue COBRA, or COBRA running out) is generally a qualifying life event that opens a Special Enrollment Period — see our SEP qualifier tool. Timing rules apply, so confirm your window before you decide.
Does this tool calculate my actual Marketplace subsidy?
No. It frames the general trade-off and estimates your COBRA cost only. Your actual subsidy depends on income, household size, and your complete Marketplace application — use the FPL calculator for a starting estimate, then get your real numbers from a licensed advisor or HealthCare.gov.
Compare your real options before you decide
Free, no pressure — we compare COBRA against actual Marketplace plans and your subsidy. Start with the FPL calculator.