· If you are leaving your job or otherwise losing access to your group health coverage, you may be able to remain covered under the group health plan for a limited time. In addition, you may have special protections when buying certain kinds of individual health insurance coverage. See Individual Health Plans for more information about COBRA and state continuation coverage, conversion, and the Connecticut Health Reinsurance Association.

· If you have lost your group health coverage and are receiving benefits from the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program, you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit to help you pay for new health coverage. This credit is called the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC), and is equal to 80% of the cost of qualified health coverage, including COBRA, state continuation coverage, and coverage through the Connecticut Health Reinsurance Association (HRA). (see Financial Assistance)

· If you are a retiree aged 55-65 and are receiving pension benefits from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, you may also be eligible for the HCTC. (see Financial Assistance)