What is gap insurance?

The generic term "gap insurance" is used to describe any COBRA plan or COBRA alternative that is used to cover a period of time between two group health insurance plans. The majority of people in the U.S. are covered by employer-provided health insurance but are likely to experience an average of seven gaps in that coverage over their lifetime.

The most popular type of gap insurance is short term major medical insurance. The popularity is attributable to its low price and easy online issue procedure.

Other types of gap insurance include COBRA, welfare plans, state insurance plans, commercial individual medical insurance, mini-med insurance. This Web site groups the choices into two categories: COBRA and COBRA alternatives. Although not everyone is eligible for both types, everyone is eligible for some type of gap insurance.

revised 3/1/09

(back to index of frequently asked questions about COBRA coverage)

Have a COBRA or COBRA alternative question?
OnlineAdviser service  provides free, professional and confidential e-mail support.

COBRA or COBRA alterative gap insurance coverage provides temporary protection when changing jobs, going through a divorce or negotiating other life transitions. Choosing the right health insurance is crucial to guarantee health and financial security.

This site is sponsored by OnlineAdviser service providing plan selection and enrollment support for over 30 of the most affordable short term  health insurance plans.