Mini-COBRA State Continuation Calculator
Calculate Mini-COBRA premiums and continuation duration by state — the federal COBRA equivalent for employees of small employers (under 20 workers) where federal COBRA does not apply.
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Mini-COBRA (state continuation) extends health coverage when federal COBRA does not apply — typically for employees of small employers under 20 workers. State laws vary widely on duration, premium loading, and election timelines.
Federal COBRA vs Mini-COBRA
Federal COBRA applies only to employers with 20+ employees and offers 18-36 months continuation at 102% of group premium. Most states fill the gap with Mini-COBRA laws covering employers below the federal threshold. Durations range from 9 months (Texas) to 36 months (California, New York, New Jersey), with premium loading typically capped at 102% but reaching 115% in some states (Florida) (source: dol.gov).
Election Timelines and Notification Rules
Most state Mini-COBRA laws require you to elect within 60 days of receiving the employer's coverage-loss notice. Failure to elect within the window forfeits the right to continuation. Premium back-payment is required to cover the gap between coverage loss and election; coverage is retroactive once elected.
When ACA Marketplace Is Cheaper
Loss of employer coverage triggers a 60-day special enrollment period on the ACA marketplace. With premium tax credits, marketplace coverage often costs less than Mini-COBRA, especially for individuals under 400% of the federal poverty line. Compare both before electing — the choice is irrevocable once you start paying Mini-COBRA premiums (source: healthcare.gov).
Last updated May 2026. Sources: DOL COBRA, HealthCare.gov.