Health insurance after a layoff in Massachusetts
When you lose job-based coverage in Massachusetts, you have a 60-day window to enroll through the Marketplace, plus the option to keep your old plan through COBRA (usually at full price). Massachusetts runs its own marketplace, Massachusetts Health Connector, at www.mahealthconnector.org. If your income dropped, you may also qualify for MassHealth.
Massachusetts coverage, at a glance
Marketplace
Massachusetts Health Connector (state-run)
Enroll at
www.mahealthconnector.org
Special enrollment
60 days from losing job coverage
Medicaid
MassHealth, expanded (to ~138% FPL)
2026 update: the enhanced pandemic-era Marketplace subsidies expired December 31, 2025. Subsidies still exist but are smaller, and the income cutoff is back, so price your real numbers at www.mahealthconnector.org rather than assuming. If your income dropped a lot, a subsidized Marketplace plan can still beat COBRA.
Both clocks run about 60 days: COBRA gives you 60 days to elect (retroactive to when your plan ended), and the Marketplace gives you a 60-day Special Enrollment window. Don't let either run out.
This is general information, not insurance or financial advice. Confirm plans, prices, and eligibility at www.mahealthconnector.org before you rely on them.
Massachusetts health coverage FAQ
Where do I buy health insurance in Massachusetts after a layoff?
Massachusetts runs its own marketplace, Massachusetts Health Connector. Enroll at www.mahealthconnector.org. Losing job-based coverage opens a 60-day Special Enrollment window, so you don't have to wait for open enrollment. You can also keep your old plan through COBRA, usually at full price.
Do I qualify for Medicaid in Massachusetts if I lost my job?
Possibly. Massachusetts expanded Medicaid (MassHealth), so adults can qualify based on current income (generally up to 138% of the federal poverty level). A job loss can make you newly eligible; you can apply any time, not just during open enrollment.
How long do I have to get a Marketplace plan in Massachusetts?
A 60-day Special Enrollment Period that starts when you lose job-based coverage. Subsidies are based on what you expect to earn this year, not last year, so enter your expected income at www.mahealthconnector.org to see your real cost. Note: 2026 subsidy rules changed (see below).
Keep going
COBRA vs. the Marketplace, compared
The two 60-day windows, the real costs, and the 2026 subsidy change.
File for unemployment in Massachusetts
The official Massachusetts portal, the waiting week, and what to have ready.
Health coverage in another state
Where to enroll and the Medicaid rules for every other state.
Reviewed June 2026. Marketplaces, subsidies, and Medicaid rules change; confirm current details at the officialMassachusetts site (www.mahealthconnector.org) or healthcare.gov before relying on them.