What Is Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term medical insurance is a flexible, budget-friendly option designed to bridge the gaps in your health coverage. These plans are not ACA-compliant major medical plans, but they can protect you from significant out-of-pocket costs during life's transitions.
They typically cover unexpected illnesses, accidents, emergency care, and hospitalizations — at a fraction of the cost of traditional plans.
- ✓Coverage available for up to 3 years minus one day — cancel anytime
- ✓Apply and enroll entirely online in under 15 minutes
- ✓Benefits can begin as early as the next day
- ✓Medical questions required — generally healthier applicants get the best rates
Is Short-Term Coverage Right for You?
These plans are a solid fit if you find yourself in one of these situations:
Between Jobs
Lost employer coverage and waiting for your new plan to begin.
Recent Graduate
Aged off a parent's plan and not yet enrolled in a new option.
Waiting Period
New job has a 60–90 day wait before employer coverage kicks in.
Early Retiree
Retired before 65 and waiting for Medicare eligibility.
Missed Open Enrollment
Missed the ACA window and need temporary protection.
What's Typically Covered
Plan benefits vary by carrier and state. Common covered services include:
⚠️ Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered under short-term plans. Maternity, mental health, and preventive care may also have limited benefits.
Getting covered is faster than you think
Get a Free Quote
Answer a few quick health questions and compare real plan options instantly.
Choose Your Plan
Pick the deductible, premium, and term length that fits your budget and timeline.
Apply Online
Complete the secure enrollment in under 15 minutes — no paperwork.
Get Covered
Coverage can start as soon as the next day, depending on your state and health.
⚠️ A Word of Caution
Short-term plans are not a replacement for major medical coverage. These plans can cover you for up to 3 years minus one day and can be cancelled at any time — though cancellations are not retroactive (no back-pay applies). They do not cover pre-existing conditions and may not meet the minimum essential coverage standards under the ACA. If you're unsure whether a short-term plan is the right fit, our team will walk you through all available options — including ACA marketplace plans — so you can make the most informed decision for your health and finances. #simplyforyourbenefit
Frequently Asked Questions
Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage for individuals during gaps in their health insurance — such as between jobs, after aging off a parent's plan, or while waiting for other coverage to begin. These are not ACA-compliant plans and have more limited benefits.
Short-term health plans can last up to 3 years minus one day. You can cancel your plan at any time — however, cancellation is not retroactive, meaning no back-pay or refunds apply to prior coverage periods.
No. Short-term plans are not ACA-compliant and do not offer the same protections. They generally don't cover pre-existing conditions, maternity, mental health, or preventive care. They are designed for temporary coverage needs only.
No. Short-term plans are not sold through the ACA marketplace, so federal premium tax credits and subsidies do not apply. If you may qualify for a subsidy, we'd recommend exploring marketplace plans alongside short-term options.
No medical exam is required, but you will need to answer health questions during the application process. Pre-existing conditions are generally excluded from coverage.
Click here to get a free quote and apply online. Our team will follow up to make sure everything is set up correctly and answer any questions you have.