What it covers, who it's for, and how it differs from marketplace plans.
Short-term health insurance is a temporary policy designed to cover a gap in coverage, typically lasting anywhere from a few months up to a year depending on the state. It's sold outside the ACA marketplace and is medically underwritten, meaning your health history can affect whether you're approved and what you pay.
Unlike marketplace plans, short-term policies are not required to cover the full set of essential health benefits, can deny coverage or charge more based on pre-existing conditions, and are not eligible for ACA subsidies. They're generally cheaper month to month, but that lower price usually comes with narrower coverage and higher risk if you need significant care.
Short-term coverage is typically used to bridge a gap — between jobs, while waiting for new employer coverage to start, or outside an open enrollment window without a qualifying life event. It's meant as a temporary stopgap, not a long-term replacement for comprehensive coverage.
Because short-term plans vary widely in what they cover and exclude, it's worth comparing a short-term option against marketplace plans you might already qualify for — especially since many people qualify for subsidized marketplace coverage at a similar or lower cost with significantly stronger protections.
Have more questions? Visit our FAQ page or read the full Coverage Guide.