Short-term health insurance provides temporary coverage for individuals in between jobs, waiting for other insurance to begin, or needing a flexible healthcare solution. These plans typically last from one month to 12 months and are often more affordable than standard plans, though they come with limitations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best short-term health insurance plans in 2025.
Introduction: Understanding Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage for individuals who need insurance for a limited period. These plans are ideal for:
✔ Job transitions (between employer coverage)
✔ Recent college graduates waiting for workplace benefits
✔ Early retirees not yet eligible for Medicare
✔ Those missing Open Enrollment for ACA plans
Key Features of Short-Term Plans:
- Lower premiums than ACA plans (average 120−300/month)
- Quick approval (often within 24 hours)
- Flexible durations (1-12 months, renewable up to 36 months in some states)
(Source: KFF 2025 Health Insurance Market Report)
Why Consider Short-Term Health Insurance?
- Temporary coverage between jobs
- Bridge gaps until long-term insurance starts
- Affordable premiums
- Quick enrollment and approval
Top 5 Short-Term Health Insurance Plans (2025)
1. Pivot Health – Best for Customizable Coverage
Overview: Known for customizable short-term plans with easy online enrollment.
Pros:
✅ No network restrictions (any licensed provider)
✅ Choose your deductible (1K−10K options)
✅ Telehealth included at no extra cost
Cons:
❌ Not available in all states
❌ No coverage for pre-existing conditions
Price: 150−350/month (varies by age & deductible)
Best For: Those wanting flexible, no-network plans
(Learn more: Pivot Health Official Site)
2. UnitedHealthcare Short-Term Medical – Best for Nationwide Coverage
Pros:
✅ Largest provider network (1.3M+ doctors)
✅ Renewable up to 36 months (in most states)
✅ Prescription drug discounts
Cons:
❌ Requires medical underwriting
❌ Limited mental health coverage
Price: 180−400/month
Best For: People who want a major insurer’s stability
(See details: UHC Short-Term Plans)
3. National General (Allstate) – Best for Affordable Premiums
Pros:
✅ Lowest-cost plans (from $110/month)
✅ Emergency care worldwide
✅ Easy online application
Cons:
❌ High deductibles ($5K+) on cheapest plans
❌ Limited specialist coverage
Price: 110−280/month
Best For: Budget-conscious applicants
(Review options: National General Plans)
4. Everest Flex Term – Best for Pre-Existing Condition Waivers
Pros:
✅ Waives pre-existing conditions after 12 months
✅ No lifetime maximums
✅ 24/7 customer service
Cons:
❌ Only available in 30 states
❌ Higher-than-average premiums
Price: 200−450/month
Best For: Those with minor pre-existing conditions
(Check availability: Everest Flex Term)
5. Sidecar Health – Best for Transparent Pricing
Pros:
✅ Pay directly for care (no claims process)
✅ See exact costs before treatment
✅ Covers surgeries & hospital stays
Cons:
❌ Must pay upfront and get reimbursed
❌ Limited to specific service areas
Price: 130−320/month
Best For: Those who want no-surprise billing
(Explore: Sidecar Health Official Site)
Key Factors When Choosing a Plan
1. State Availability
Short-term plans are not available in:
- California
- New York
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
(Source: NAIC State Regulations Guide)
2. Coverage Limitations
Most plans do not cover:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Maternity care
- Mental health services
- Preventive care (annual check-ups)
3. Cost Considerations
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Age | +50−100 per decade over 30 |
| Deductible | Higher deductible = Lower premium |
| State | Prices vary by 20-40% regionally |
Short-Term vs. ACA Plans
| Feature | Short-Term Plans | ACA Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 120−450/month | 400−1,200/month |
| Pre-Existing Conditions | Not covered | Covered |
| Enrollment Period | Anytime | Only during Open Enrollment |
| Provider Choice | Often broader networks | Limited to ACA network |
(Comparison data: Healthcare.gov 2025 Guide)
How to Apply for Short-Term Insurance
Step-by-Step Process
- Compare plans (use HealthCare.gov’s tool)
- Check eligibility (age, residency, health questions)
- Submit application (online in 15-30 minutes)
- Receive approval (often same day)
- Make first payment (coverage starts in 1-7 days)
Pro Tip: Avoid gaps by applying before current coverage ends.
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Historical Context
Short-term health insurance has been available in the U.S. for decades, primarily as a stop-gap solution. In recent years, regulatory changes have allowed terms of up to 36 months, making these plans increasingly popular among freelancers, part-time workers, and those in transition.
Fan and Media Reactions
Health insurance review sites and financial blogs consistently recommend short-term health plans for flexibility and affordability but caution users to read exclusions carefully. UnitedHealthcare and Pivot Health are frequently mentioned as top picks.
Examples with Visuals
Example 1: Job Transition Coverage
An individual between jobs chooses a UnitedHealthcare short-term plan to maintain coverage until new employer benefits kick in.
Example 2: Recent Graduate Solution
A recent college graduate uses Pivot Health to stay covered affordably while job searching.
Example 3: Seasonal Worker Coverage
A seasonal worker selects National General’s short-term insurance for coverage during off-seasons.
FAQs
Q: Can I renew my short-term plan?
A: In most states, yes—up to 36 months total. Some insurers require re-application every 3-12 months.
Q: Do short-term plans meet ACA requirements?
A: No. They don’t satisfy the individual mandate (which no longer has a federal penalty but may in some states).
Q: Are there alternatives to short-term insurance?
A: Yes:
- COBRA (if leaving a job)
- Medicaid (income-based)
- Health sharing ministries (faith-based cost-sharing)
(More options: CMS 2025 Health Coverage Guide)
Final Recommendations
Short-term health insurance can provide essential coverage during life transitions. Providers like UnitedHealthcare, Pivot Health, and National General offer flexible, affordable solutions with quick approval and coverage options. While these plans aren’t a replacement for comprehensive health insurance, they serve as valuable stop-gap solutions.
Best Overall: UnitedHealthcare (widest acceptance)
Most Affordable: National General
Most Flexible: Pivot Health
Next Steps:
- Use our comparison tool below
- Speak to a licensed agent for personalized advice