Short-term health insurance can be a practical solution for Americans facing temporary gaps in coverage, such as between jobs or waiting for other insurance to begin. Unlike ACA-compliant plans, these policies offer limited benefits but are often more affordable. This guide highlights the top providers and plans available in 2025.
TOP SHORT-TERM HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDERS
UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
- Best For: Comprehensive coverage with a vast network.
- Monthly Premiums: Starting around $222.
- Highlights: Offers plans like Value Direct, Value, Plus, Copay, Plus Elite, and Premier Elite. Provides same-day coverage and access to a large network of doctors. Some plans include prescription drug coverage.
- Considerations: Limited coverage for out-of-network care and vaccines.
Pivot Health
- Best For: Budget-conscious individuals seeking low deductibles.
- Monthly Premiums: Starting at approximately $192.
- Highlights: Plans such as Deluxe, Standard, and Economy cater to various needs. Deluxe plans are noted for low deductibles and affordable copays for doctor visits and prescriptions.
- Considerations: Coverage options may vary by state.
Everest
- Best For: Those needing flexible plan options.
- Monthly Premiums: Around $102.38 for basic plans.
- Highlights: Offers co-pay options of $30, $40, or $50 and deductible options ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
- Considerations: Availability and plan details may differ by location.
National General Accident & Health
- Best For: High coverage limits and low out-of-pocket costs.
- Monthly Premiums: Vary, with some plans starting at $35.57.
- Highlights: Provides low coinsurance, low application fees, out-of-network coverage, and several plans with generic prescription drug coverage.
- Considerations: Some plans have high out-of-pocket limits and deductibles.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A PLAN
- Coverage Duration: Ensure the plan’s duration aligns with your needs. Federal rules limit short-term plans to a total duration of four months, including renewals, for policies sold or issued on or after Sept. 1, 2024.
- State Availability: Short-term health insurance availability varies by state. Some states have outright bans or restrictions on these plans.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Most short-term plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. It’s essential to understand what is and isn’t covered.
- Cost vs. Coverage: While short-term plans are generally more affordable, they offer limited coverage compared to ACA-compliant plans. Assess your healthcare needs to determine if a short-term plan is suitable.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Short-term health insurance can be a viable option for temporary coverage gaps. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and ensure the plan meets your specific needs. Always compare different providers and plans to find the best fit for your situation.
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