Short term health insurance USA provides temporary medical coverage for individuals facing gaps in their primary plans. In 2026, these plans, also known as short-term limited-duration insurance (STLDI), serve as a bridge during transitions like job changes, waiting periods for new employer benefits, or periods outside ACA open enrollment. Federal rules finalized in 2024 limit these plans to a maximum total duration of four months, including renewals, for policies issued on or after September 1, 2024. This change aims to prevent long-term use and emphasize their role as temporary solutions.
These plans often cost significantly less than comprehensive ACA marketplace options, with average individual premiums around $100 to $200 monthly, depending on age, location, and coverage level. They appeal to healthy people seeking basic protection against unexpected emergencies without the higher costs of full-year coverage.
However, short term health insurance USA lacks many consumer protections required by the Affordable Care Act. It typically excludes pre-existing conditions, preventive care, maternity, mental health services, and sometimes prescription drugs. Insurers may deny applications based on medical history through underwriting.
As you consider options, short term health insurance USA works best for short, predictable gaps, not as a substitute for ongoing needs.
What Is Short Term Health Insurance in the USA?
Short term health insurance consists of limited-duration policies sold by private insurers. Unlike ACA-compliant plans, they do not need to cover the ten essential health benefits. Coverage focuses on major medical events, such as hospital stays, emergency care, and doctor visits, but with restrictions.
Federal regulations cap the initial term at three months, with total coverage, including extensions, limited to four months. Some states impose stricter rules, while others ban or severely restrict these plans entirely. Availability varies, with about 35 states allowing sales in 2026.
These plans undergo medical underwriting, meaning applicants answer health questions, and insurers can reject those with certain conditions or histories. Once approved, coverage starts quickly, often within days.
Key Features and Limitations of Short Term Plans
Short term health insurance USA includes several core elements, but also notable gaps.
Covered Services — Emergency room visits, hospital stays, urgent care, some doctor appointments, and limited prescriptions in many cases.
Exclusions — Pre-existing conditions (broadly defined), preventive screenings, maternity care, mental health treatment, substance use disorder services, and routine checkups.
Benefit Limits — Policies often cap total payouts at $1 million to $2 million, with high deductibles ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.
Network — Many use large networks, such as those from UnitedHealthcare, but out-of-network care may cost more or not be covered.
Renewal — Limited to the federal four-month maximum; no indefinite renewals.
Consumer Protections — No guaranteed issue, no pre-existing condition coverage, no out-of-pocket maximums in some plans, and potential rescission after claims.
These features make short term health insurance USA cheaper but riskier for unexpected illnesses.
Pros and Cons of Short Term Health Insurance USA
Short term plans offer advantages and drawbacks.
Pros
- Lower premiums — Often 50-80% less than ACA plans.
- Year-round availability — No waiting for open enrollment.
- Quick approval — Applications processed fast, coverage starts soon.
- Basic protection — Helps with catastrophic events during gaps.
Cons
- Limited duration — Maximum four months total.
- No pre-existing coverage — Conditions from before enrollment excluded.
- Medical underwriting — Possible denial based on health history.
- Fewer benefits — Excludes essential services like preventive care.
- Potential high costs — High deductibles and caps lead to large out-of-pocket expenses.
Compared to ACA marketplace plans, short term health insurance USA saves money upfront but lacks comprehensive safeguards.
Average Costs of Short Term Health Insurance in 2026
Costs remain much lower than traditional options.
Individual plans average $100 to $200 monthly for healthy adults, with some as low as $50-$100 depending on deductibles and location.
For families, averages rise to around $250-$400 monthly.
Factors influencing price include age (higher for older applicants), state regulations, chosen deductible (higher deductibles lower premiums), and coverage level.
These figures contrast with unsubsidized ACA Silver plans averaging $600-$750 monthly for similar ages.
Top Providers of Short Term Health Insurance in 2026
Several insurers lead in offering these plans.
UnitedHealthcare — Features large networks (over 1.8 million providers), options for higher benefit limits (up to $2 million), and flexible deductibles. Often praised for accessibility.
Pivot Health — Known for low costs, options like 0% or 20% coinsurance, and user-friendly plans such as Epic Base.
Everest — Offers competitive pricing, multiple deductible choices, and good coverage maximums. Flex Term policies stand out for value.
National General — Provides solid options with out-of-network coverage in some plans.
Other providers include LifeShield, Companion Life, and Aspen, though availability varies by state.
These companies often require association membership in certain states, adding small fees.
When to Choose Short Term Health Insurance USA
These plans suit specific situations.
- Between jobs — While waiting for new employer coverage.
- Recent graduates — No longer on parents’ plans.
- Seasonal workers — Needing coverage for limited periods.
- Healthy individuals — Who accept risks for lower costs.
Avoid if you have chronic conditions, need ongoing medications, or plan long-term use.
Always compare with ACA options, especially if subsidies apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum duration for short term health insurance USA in 2026?
Federal rules limit total coverage, including renewals, to four months for plans issued after September 1, 2024.
How much does short term health insurance cost per month in the USA?
Individual plans average $100-$200 monthly; family plans around $250-$400, depending on age, state, and deductible.
Does short term health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, these plans exclude pre-existing conditions and may deny coverage based on medical history.
Who are the best short term health insurance providers in 2026?
Top options include UnitedHealthcare, Pivot Health, and Everest for their networks, pricing, and flexibility.
Is short term health insurance better than ACA plans?
It is cheaper and available year-round but offers limited benefits, no pre-existing coverage, and fewer protections compared to ACA marketplace plans.
Can I renew short term health insurance beyond four months?
No, federal limits prevent extensions beyond the four-month total duration.
In which states is short term health insurance not available?
About 15 states (including D.C.) ban or restrict these plans due to state laws.
Does short term health insurance qualify as minimum essential coverage?
No, it does not meet ACA standards and may not satisfy state requirements where applicable.
Tips for Buying Short Term Health Insurance
Research state availability first.
Compare multiple quotes from licensed brokers or insurer sites.
Read exclusions carefully.
Choose higher deductibles if healthy to lower premiums.
Understand network providers.
Plan for transition to comprehensive coverage afterward.
Consult professionals if unsure.
Conclusion
Short term health insurance USA fills temporary gaps affordably in 2026, with premiums often far below ACA alternatives. Providers like UnitedHealthcare, Pivot Health, and Everest deliver reliable options for healthy individuals. However, limited duration, exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and lack of essential benefits make these plans unsuitable for long-term or ongoing needs. Always weigh pros against risks, compare thoroughly, and prioritize comprehensive coverage when possible. The right choice protects your health without unexpected financial burdens.