Former employees who had health benefits for at least 18 months prior to getting laid off can qualify for their same policies under the 1985 Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).

FORBES: Magazine Article

In May, 18 years after COBRA's enactment, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued final rules spelling it all out.

FORBES: COBRA's Bite

Sir Gulam Noon, founder of a ready-meal business, and (Lord) Kiran Bilimoria, who set up Cobra beer, are confident that British businesses will do better in India.

ECONOMIST: Britain and India

Historically only 9% of laid-off workers have opted for Cobra (named for the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986).

FORBES: Magazine Article

Once the divorce is finalized, you (the non-employee spouse) can qualify for COBRA coverage, but remember: COBRA is temporary and lasts only up to 36 months.

FORBES: Three of the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Health Insurance, Life Insurance and Social Security After Divorce

Try HIPAA: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) can rescue refugees who can't get retiree or COBRA continuation coverage from small employers.

FORBES: Magazine Article