you can hold on to cobra until it expires at which point the loss of insurance will be a qualifying event that allows you to buy another policy even if it's outside the open enrollment period. but you'd be well served to search your state's marketplace this fall for another plan that starts january 1 2014. it's quite possible you'll find a less expensive insurance policy especially if you qualify for a subsidy. if you find a better plan you can drop cobra at the start of the year when your new plan kicks into place. if you then get a job that offers coverage you'll drop your marketplace coverage and be covered by your new employer.
i am unemployed and 47 years of age. my cobra expires in may 2014. . since my cobra expires around mid-2014 do i need to buy alternative obamacare exchange insurance by december 15 2013 effective march 2014 to ensure i will have both continuing coverage and face no penalty for 2014? how is the answer changed or impacted by (1. ) the potential for future employment with health benefits prior to the cobra eligibility expiration deadline (2. ) previous active duty u. s. veteran status (honorably discharged but not pension eligible) or (3. ) my state of residence (ny)