· If you are leaving your job or otherwise losing access to your group health plan, 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. See for more information about COBRA continuation coverage, state continuation coverage, conversion coverage, individual health insurance, and coverage for “HIPAA eligible individuals.”

· If you have lost your group health plan 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 it is equal to 80% of the cost of qualified health coverage, including COBRA and a specific policy offered through one of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans operating in your region. (see Financial Assistance)

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