Can I use COBRA until Medicare?

COBRA is time-limited and often expensive; compare it with Marketplace subsidies before defaulting to it.

Does retiring count as a qualifying event?

Losing employer coverage when you retire generally opens Special Enrollment — confirm your specific situation.

Bridging the gap from employer coverage to Medicare before age 65.

Retiring before Medicare eligibility means piecing together Marketplace plans, a spouse's employer plan, COBRA, or less often retiree benefits.

Subsidy estimates based on retirement income surprise many people — lower modified AGI can mean richer premium tax credits.

Model a few years of premiums and out-of-pocket maximums. Consider an HDHP + HSA while you can still contribute if that fits your care pattern.

Keep records for the Medicare transition so Part B timing stays clean when you hit 65.

Can I use COBRA until Medicare?: COBRA is time-limited and often expensive; compare it with Marketplace subsidies before defaulting to it.
Does retiring count as a qualifying event?: Losing employer coverage when you retire generally opens Special Enrollment — confirm your specific situation.

HealthCare.gov — the official ACA Health Insurance Marketplace · reviewed 2026-01-15
KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) — health policy research · reviewed 2026-01-15
OLYRON HealthMatch editorial methodology — how we source and rate options · reviewed 2026-01-15

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