If your father had group benefits he must be offered COBRA -- the right to continue his benefits for up to 18 months by paying the full premium.

The exception to this would be if the company went out of business.

But here is something very important for him to know.

As a part of the stimulus plan the federal government is picking up 65% of the cost of COBRA for up to nine months. (The company pays but then applies the payment against payroll taxes.) This is for anyone unemployed involuntarily since Septmeber 1, 2008.

This can make COBRA so much more affordable and allow time to shop around for coverage -- or get another job with benefits.

If he plans on getting reemployed (as opposed to retiring) COBRA can be a better option than getting an individual plan as he will meet the requirements for no preexisting condition exclusion when he gets coverage with another employer.

PM me if you want more information on it.