Should I Take Medicare While on COBRA?

You should enroll in Part B when your active employment ends — not when COBRA ends. Medicare is always primary over COBRA, and COBRA does not protect you from the Part B penalty. You can keep COBRA as secondary coverage, but it usually isn't worth the cost.

When This Applies

  • You recently left your job and elected COBRA
  • You are 65+ and on COBRA continuation coverage
  • You think COBRA protects you from Medicare penalties
  • You are deciding whether to keep COBRA alongside Medicare

Frequently Asked Questions

Does COBRA extend my SEP?
No. The SEP starts when active employment or employer coverage ends, not when COBRA ends. This is one of Medicare's most misunderstood rules.
Is COBRA worth keeping with Medicare?
Usually not. COBRA premiums are high (you pay the full cost plus 2%), and COBRA only pays secondary. Medicare plus a Medigap or Advantage plan is often more cost-effective.
What if I already elected COBRA and skipped Part B?
Check if your 8-month SEP is still open (counts from when employment ended). If it's past, you'll need to wait for the GEP.