Short-term health insurance is a temporary medical insurance option for people in the United States who need quick, flexible, and cheaper coverage. It is not a replacement for full-coverage health insurance, but it can help you stay protected during gaps—such as losing a job, waiting for new coverage, or needing something affordable for a short period.
This article explains what short-term health insurance is, the benefits, the drawbacks, who it is best for, and which providers offer the cheapest plans.
What Is Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term health insurance (also called temporary health insurance) provides limited medical coverage for a short period. Most plans last 30 days to 364 days, and in some states you can renew them for up to 36 months.
These plans are designed for people who need quick and low-cost protection, not those who need long-term or comprehensive benefits.
Short-term plans usually cover:
- Doctor visits
- Urgent care
- Emergency room
- Hospitalization
- Some prescription drugs
But coverage is not guaranteed for everyone, and benefits vary widely.
Pros of Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance has several advantages, especially for people who need temporary protection at the lowest possible price.
1. Very Affordable Premiums
Short-term plans are often cheaper than regular health insurance. Some basic plans cost as low as $40–$90 per month.
2. Fast Approval
You can get coverage the same day or within 24 hours. Ideal if you suddenly lose your plan or need quick coverage.
3. Customizable
You can choose:
- the coverage length
- deductible amount
- copay options
- add-ons like accident benefits
This flexibility helps you control your monthly cost.
4. Works Well for Temporary Gaps
Short-term plans are helpful when you:
- lose your job
- wait for employer insurance to start
- miss an ACA Marketplace enrollment period
- wait for Medicare coverage
- need quick protection during life transitions
5. Wide doctor networks
Many short-term plans use PPO networks, allowing you to see a wide range of doctors.
Cons of Short-Term Health Insurance
Despite being cheap and flexible, short-term plans come with major limitations.
1. Does NOT cover pre-existing conditions
If you already have diabetes, asthma, heart disease, pregnancy, or any chronic illness, short-term plans may reject you or deny claims.
2. Limited coverage
They usually do not cover:
- maternity care
- mental health treatment
- substance abuse
- preventive care
- prescriptions (many plans exclude them)
3. No guaranteed renewal
If you get sick during your coverage period, the insurer may not renew your plan.
4. High deductibles
Many plans have deductibles between $2,500–$10,000, meaning you pay a lot before insurance starts covering costs.
5. Not ACA-compliant
These plans are not part of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), so:
- they don’t cover essential health benefits
- they can deny people based on health history
- they don’t qualify for subsidies
6. Not available in all states
Some states restrict or ban short-term plans altogether.
Who Should Consider Short-Term Health Insurance?
Short-term health insurance is best for people who:
- need fast temporary coverage
- are between jobs
- are waiting for new employer insurance
- missed ACA enrollment deadlines
- are healthy with no pre-existing conditions
- need coverage only for emergencies
- want the cheapest possible medical protection
It is not suitable for people with ongoing medical needs, chronic illnesses, or those who want stable long-term insurance.
Cheapest Short-Term Health Insurance Providers in the USA
Below are well-known companies offering some of the cheapest short-term health plans with flexible coverage options. Pricing and availability depend on your age, state, and health status, but these companies are widely known for affordability.
1. UnitedHealthcare (UHOne)
One of the most popular and widely available short-term plans.
Why it’s cheap:
- Multiple deductible choices
- Low starting premiums
- Broad nationwide network
Best for: healthy individuals needing simple, emergency-only coverage.
2. Everest Reinsurance
Known for low prices and basic coverage.
Why it’s cheap:
- Very low monthly premiums
- High deductibles (which reduce cost)
- Simple, no-frills plan design
Best for: people needing coverage for a short period with minimal cost.
3. National General (Allstate Health Solutions)
A strong competitor with flexible plan options.
Why it’s cheap:
- Mix-and-match coverage choices
- Low-cost options with limited benefits
- Good PPO networks
Best for: people who want different deductible/copay combinations.
4. Pivot Health
Offers extremely flexible short-term plans.
Why it’s cheap:
- Custom coverage based on budget
- Optional benefits like telemedicine
- Low-premium/high-deductible options
Best for: young adults and gig workers.
5. IHC Group (Independence Holding Company)
Offers a variety of affordable temporary plans.
Why it’s cheap:
- Budget-friendly premiums
- Different term lengths
- Simple application
Best for: individuals who want an easy and fast enrollment.
6. Blue Cross Blue Shield (Short-term in certain states)
Not available everywhere, but when available, the pricing is competitive.
Why it’s cheap:
- Large doctor network
- Reasonable monthly cost
- Good emergency coverage
Best for: people who want brand-name reliability.
How Much Do Short-Term Plans Typically Cost?
Pricing varies, but here is a general estimate:
| Type of Plan | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic short-term plan | $40–$90/month |
| Mid-range plan | $100–$180/month |
| High-coverage plan | $180–$250/month |
Factors that affect cost:
- state
- age
- deductible
- length of coverage
- added benefits
Tips for Choosing the Right Short-Term Plan
Here’s how to pick the best and cheapest plan without hidden surprises:
1. Check deductible and out-of-pocket limits
A low premium often means a high deductible.
2. Make sure emergency and hospitalization coverage is strong
These are the most important parts of a short-term plan.
3. Read exclusions carefully
Short-term plans exclude many things—always double-check.
4. Compare several providers
Prices and coverage vary a lot.
5. Don’t rely on short-term insurance long-term
It’s meant for temporary protection only.
Final Thoughts
Short-term health insurance in the USA can be a helpful and low-cost option for people who need temporary coverage. It provides quick approval, affordable premiums, and basic protection. However, it comes with major limitations—especially for people with pre-existing conditions or those who want full, long-term health coverage.
If you are young, healthy, and simply need temporary coverage while transitioning between life stages, a short-term plan can be a smart and economical choice. But if you need comprehensive benefits, mental health services, maternity care, or long-term security, consider Marketplace ACA plans instead.