If you’re between jobs, waiting for employer coverage to kick in, or just need temporary medical protection, short-term health insurance in the USA might be the right choice. These plans offer quick, flexible coverage—but they also come with limitations.
In this guide, we’ll break down how short-term health insurance works, who it’s best for, costs, pros and cons, and how to find the best plan for your needs.
What Is Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage, usually lasting from 1 month to 12 months, with some states allowing renewals up to 36 months. Unlike traditional health insurance (ACA plans), these policies:
- Do not cover pre-existing conditions
- Have limited benefits (some exclude prescriptions, maternity, or mental health)
- Offer faster approval (often within 24 hours)
- Cost less than ACA plans (but provide less coverage)
These plans are not Obamacare-compliant, meaning they don’t meet the Affordable Care Act’s minimum requirements. However, they can be a good stopgap solution if you need immediate coverage.
Who Should Consider Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term plans aren’t for everyone, but they make sense if:
✅ You’re between jobs – If you quit or lost your job and are waiting for new employer benefits to start.
✅ You missed Open Enrollment – ACA enrollment is only available once a year (unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period).
✅ You’re a young, healthy adult – If you rarely visit the doctor and just want emergency coverage.
✅ You’re waiting for Medicare – If you’re turning 65 soon but need a few months of coverage.
✅ You can’t afford ACA plans – Short-term premiums are often cheaper (but with higher out-of-pocket costs).
Who Should Avoid Short-Term Insurance?
❌ People with pre-existing conditions (diabetes, cancer, heart disease) – These plans won’t cover treatments related to past health issues.
❌ Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy – Maternity care is rarely included.
❌ Those who need regular prescriptions – Many short-term plans don’t cover medications well.
How Much Does Short-Term Health Insurance Cost?
Prices vary based on age, location, and coverage level, but here’s a general range:
| Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $100 – $300 |
| Deductible | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Copay for Doctor Visits | $50 – $100 |
| Maximum Coverage | $250K – $2M |
Example: A 30-year-old in Texas might pay $150/month for a plan with a $5,000 deductible, while a 55-year-old in New York could pay $400/month for similar coverage.
Cheapest Short-Term Health Insurance Companies
Some of the top providers in 2024 include:
- Pivot Health – Best for customizable plans
- UnitedHealthcare (UHC) – Strong network of doctors
- Everest Reinsurance – Competitive pricing
- National General – Good for short-term gap coverage
Pros and Cons of Short-Term Health Insurance
✅ Advantages
✔ Fast approval – Get covered in as little as 24 hours.
✔ Lower monthly premiums – Cheaper than ACA plans.
✔ Flexible duration – Choose 1 month to 1 year (or more in some states).
✔ No Open Enrollment restrictions – Apply anytime.
❌ Disadvantages
✖ No coverage for pre-existing conditions – Past health issues are excluded.
✖ Limited benefits – Many plans skip mental health, maternity, and prescriptions.
✖ High deductibles & out-of-pocket costs – You pay more when you need care.
✖ Not renewable in all states – Some states ban renewals after 3–6 months.
How to Apply for Short-Term Health Insurance
- Compare Plans – Use sites like Healthcare.gov (for ACA plans) or Pivot Health (for short-term).
- Check State Rules – Some states (NY, CA) ban or restrict short-term plans.
- Apply Online – Fill out a quick form (no long medical questionnaires).
- Get Approved Instantly – Many insurers approve within 24 hours.
- Start Coverage – Some plans begin the next day.
Alternatives to Short-Term Health Insurance
If short-term plans don’t fit your needs, consider:
- ACA (Obamacare) Plans – Full coverage, but only during Open Enrollment.
- COBRA – Keep your old employer plan (but it’s expensive).
- Health Sharing Ministries – Religious-based cost-sharing (not insurance).
- Medicaid – Free/low-cost if you qualify.
Final Verdict: Is Short-Term Health Insurance Worth It?
Short-term health insurance works best if:
🔹 You’re healthy and need temporary coverage
🔹 You can’t get an ACA plan right now
🔹 You’re okay with limited benefits
But if you have ongoing health issues or need comprehensive care, an ACA plan or employer insurance is a better choice.
Next Steps
➡ Compare short-term plans on sites like Pivot Health or eHealth
➡ Check your state’s rules (some limit coverage length)
➡ Read the fine print – Know what’s excluded before buying