Tips on health insurance for the unemployed

n Act immediately. Don't wait, thinking you'll get another job or things will work out so you don't have to think about it. It can take up to six weeks to get your insurance application approved.

n Find the expert at your former employer who can explain everything about the coverage offered under the COBRA plan, and be assertive asking questions: How much will it cost? What benefits are covered? What is the deadline for signing up? How long will COBRA last? Is there an option for covering only some family members? Can you change to a less expensive plan during open enrollment?

n Don't just call up an insurance company and apply. You could get denied for something that you didn't think was that big a deal, such as a chiropractor's visit or using Prozac. You'll have to disclose that you've been denied when you apply somewhere else and that might be a red flag that affects your ability to get coverage.

If you want to apply directly, try to get a copy of the insurance company's application in advance to know what kinds of questions will be asked.

n Because health insurance is so complicated, it's probably not a good idea to try to do it on the Internet. Seek advice from an independent insurance agent.

n Pay your premium on time. You could lose your benefits and have to start back at square one to get a new plan that may not be as good.