Your state might have its own health care continuation law that provides better or broader coverage than the federal COBRA. This means it may cover smaller employers and/or provide more benefits. Your employer must follow whichever law is most beneficial to you. To find out more about your state's law, contact your state insurance office or labor department.

Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment insurance benefits may provide some financial help if you lose your job, temporarily or permanently. Benefits will be less than your former pay and generally last for only about 26 weeks. (Depending on your circumstances and state, you may be able to get extended benefits for an additional 13 to 20 weeks.) However, not all out-of-work individuals are entitled to unemployment benefits: You will be eligible only if you lose your job through no fault of your own.