Articles
- What is a Long-Term, or Chronic, Disability?
- Personal Financial Resources to Consider Using During Recovery
- Places to Avoid Turning to for Financial Help If Possible
- Federal and State Assistance Programs
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- State Disability Insurance
- Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
- Food Stamps
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
- School Breakfast & Lunch Programs
- Childcare Assistance
- State-Based Family Support Services
- Working on a New Budget
- Help If you are Concerned about Being Able to Pay Your Mortgage
- Bill-Paying Help
- If You are Pursuing Legal Action
- Programs to Help Meet Your Daily Needs
- Future Financial Planning
- Health Care Services
- Your Job and Vocational Resources
- Educational Services and Support
- Veterans Services
- Housing Options
- Caregiver Resources
- Your Legal Rights
- Preparing for an Emergency
- Disability Checklist Tool
Health Insurance
If your unexpected disability has affected your ability to continue working at your current job your health insurance could be in jeopardy. You don't want to risk being uninsured. If you lose your job, or need to leave because of your disability, you are legally entitled to maintain your health insurance under your company's health insurance plan under something called COBRA (the Consolidated Budget Reconciliation Act). However to keep your coverage you will now have to pay the full price for the policy, including any amount that your employer has paid for your coverage. You may also be charged an additional 2% for administrative costs. You are allowed to continue your coverage for up to 18 months.
It's important to maintain your health insurance not only in the event of a medical emergency, but also to maintain what's referred to as "credible coverage" that may help make you eligible for your spouse's plan if necessary. You might find that the premiums are too costly for you and that you can find a cheaper plan by shopping around. If you belong to any professional organizations or clubs ask if they provide member discounts on insurance. Click here to learn more about health insurance.
