How do I get health insurance if I retire before 65?

Before Medicare starts at 65, you have a few ways to stay covered. Compare the main options.

Your main options

• ACA marketplace plan. You can enroll in a plan on HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace. A tax credit may lower the price based on income.
• COBRA. You can usually keep your employer plan for up to 18 months, but you pay the full premium plus an administrative fee.
• Spouse's plan. If your spouse still has job coverage, you may be able to join it.
• Retiree coverage. Some employers offer it. Ask HR before your last day.
• Medicaid. Low-income households may qualify, depending on the state.

Do not miss the enrollment window

Losing job coverage usually opens a special enrollment period of 60 days to join a marketplace plan. Outside that window you generally wait for the yearly open enrollment.

Your income decides your price

Marketplace credits depend on your expected income for the year, and under current law they stop above 400% of the federal poverty line. In early retirement, income you control, such as Roth conversions, IRA withdrawals, and selling investments, can change your premium by thousands of dollars.

Estimate your subsidy → · The 400% cliff explained →

Sources: HealthCare.gov: special enrollment; U.S. Dept. of Labor: COBRA.