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Short Term Health Insurance Plans for Individuals & Families

Going on an adventure abroad? In between jobs or places of residence? Missed Open Enrollment? Short Term Health Insurance can keep you covered so you don't have to worry. Click below to get a free Short Term Health Insurance quote.


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What is a Short Term Health Insurance Plan?

Short-term health insurance is a budget-friendly option for those needing coverage during life transitions. It is often used to fill gaps in coverage when someone is between longer-term health plans, such as during job transitions, waiting for a new employer’s benefits to begin, or outside the open enrollment period for marketplace insurance. While it doesn't cover pre-existing conditions or offer the full benefits of ACA plans, it can be a good choice if ACA plans are too expensive or unavailable. Note: Short Term Health Insurance is not available in all states.


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Benefits of Short Term Health Insurance

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Affordability

Short-term health insurance often has lower monthly premiums compared to long-term or ACA-compliant health plans, making it a more affordable option for individuals needing temporary coverage.
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Flexibility

You can enroll in short-term health insurance at any time, without waiting for an open enrollment period. Coverage typically starts quickly, sometimes within days, making it ideal for those in transitional periods.
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Covers Gaps in Coverage 

It provides a safety net for emergencies, such as accidents or sudden illnesses, during gaps in health insurance, offering protection while you're between jobs or waiting for more permanent coverage to begin.


 

 

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What are the Key Features of Short Term Health Insurance?

Short-term health insurance is a type of temporary health coverage designed to provide protection for a limited period, typically ranging from one month to up to a year, depending on state regulations and the insurance provider.
  • Temporary Coverage
    It is meant for short-term use, usually for periods of one to three months, but some plans may offer coverage for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal depending on state laws.
  • Limited Benefits
    Short-term plans generally offer coverage for emergencies, hospitalizations, and major illnesses, but they may not cover comprehensive services like:
    • Preventive care
    • Prescription drugs
    • Mental health services
    • Maternity care
    • Pre-existing conditions
  • Lower Premiums, Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs
    These plans often have lower monthly premiums compared to long-term or ACA-compliant health plans, making them an affordable temporary solution. However, deductibles and out-of-pocket costs tend to be higher, and coverage may be limited.
  • No ACA Requirements
    Short-term plans are not required to meet the essential health benefit standards set by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As a result, they may exclude certain types of care that ACA plans are required to cover, such as maternity care or preventive services.
  • Quick Enrollment
    Short-term plans usually allow for quick enrollment without having to wait for an open enrollment period. Coverage can often start within days of applying.
  • Exclusions and Limitations
    Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and plans may have limits on certain services or impose caps on the total coverage amount.
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How are short term plans different from major medical insurance?


  • Lower Rates: Short-term insurance often offers lower, more budget-friendly premiums compared to other plans.
  • Peace of Mind: Don’t go without coverage. A short-term plan helps bridge the gap and provides a safety net.
  • Quick Approval: Many applicants receive quick approval and proof of insurance, sometimes immediately.
  • Flexible Terms: Most short-term plans provide coverage for 30-90 days, depending on your state.
  • Suitable For Early Retirees: Individuals who retire before qualifying for Medicare might use short-term plans to bridge the gap.

 

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Short Term Health Insurance FAQs


  • What does short-term health insurance cover?

    Answer
    It typically covers emergencies, hospitalizations, and doctor visits, but often excludes preventive care, prescription drugs, and pre-existing conditions.

  • How long can I have short-term health insurance?

    Answer
    Coverage usually lasts from one to three months, but some plans may extend up to 12 months, depending on state laws and provider options.

  • How are short term plans different from major medical insurance?

    Answer
    • Affordable Rates: Short-term insurance often offers lower, more budget-friendly premiums compared to other plans.
    • Peace of Mind: Don’t go without coverage. A short-term plan helps bridge the gap and provides a safety net.
    • Quick Approval: Many applicants receive quick approval and proof of insurance, sometimes immediately.
    • Flexible Terms: Most short-term plans provide coverage for 30-90 days, depending on your state.

  • Can I renew short-term health insurance?

    Answer
    Renewal depends on state regulations and the specific plan. Some states allow renewal for up to 36 months, while others do not permit renewals.

  • Is short-term health insurance ACA-compliant?

    Answer
    No, short-term plans do not meet Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements and may not cover essential health benefits like maternity care or mental health services.

  • Who should consider short-term health insurance?

    Answer
    People in transition between jobs, waiting for employer coverage, or those who missed open enrollment for long-term plans.
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