Q:  I was terminated from my job on March 23rd of this year. I haven't heard anything nor have I received a notice. I don't know who to get in touch with. I tried e mailing the company but haven't gotten a reply. The company owns numerous apt. complexes in the southeast so I'm pretty sure they have more than 20 employees. My insurance runs out tomorrows and I need some answers. Can you tell me if the company I worked for offers cobra? I have pre existing conditions and can't get insurance on my own. I don't think my state has a risk pool. All the jobs I've applied for don't offer benefits. What is a person like me supposed to do? I'm willing to pay for a benefit, that isn’t a problem. If you can help me it would be greatly appreciated. Also I'm not eligible for Medicaid. 

A: Your employer (assuming they have more than 20 employees) has a total of 45 days from the qualifying event to get your COBRA notification to you.  From the date that you get your notification, you have 60 days to elect coverage. Your coverage will back date so there will be no lapse, as soon as you sign up and make your first premium payment. If your employer can not answer your questions or does not comply, you can call the Department of Labor at 1-866-487-2365