H1b job change and Health Insurance

[mxs]

I am on H1b and considering joining a new company on H1b transfer. Currently, I have UHC. However, I need to wait for 31 days before getting health benefits in the new company. So, there is gap of around 5 weeks where I may not have health insurance. We are expecting and due in 4th week of July. My wife is dependent. Would you advise me on my options as I can't afford to be without insurance for a day. I have heard about COBRA. If that is the best option, does every company(including desi-companies) provide COBRA option? How common and reliable this is and the plz share process and timeline.

[User099]

Check with your employer if they have Cobra option, not everyone provides it. If not, you can apply thought Healthcare.gov as you have a life changing event (loss of job).

[LeaveMessageH1B]

COBRA is a law. You may still keep the plan, but premium (probably without employer's negotiated price) has to come out from your pocket. 

[JoeF]

2 hours ago, Leavemessageh1b said:

COBRA is a law. You may still keep the plan, but premium (probably without employer's negotiated price) has to come out from your pocket. 

Yeah, COBRA is always available when changing jobs, regardless of employer. It is, however, rather expensive, because there is no employer-negotiated group policy.

The other option would be the ACA, aka ObamaCare.

Edited June 4, 2020 by JoeF