Short-term health insurance is also called temporary health insurance. It provides coverage during life transitions.
Think of short-term coverage just like it sounds — temporary, for the short term. We don’t consider short-term coverage as a long-term solution. However, it does fill an important need.
The individual health insurance market is challenging. The options for Affordable Care Act-compliant coverage may seem unfavorable — premiums can be high, provider access is limited, and deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums are through the roof.
We understand the temptation to go without health insurance. But that is very risky.
So, although we typically do not recommend a short-term plan as a long-term solution, if you are choosing between short-term coverage and no coverage at all — then a short-term plan is the better choice.
But please be sure you understand the limitations of short-term health insurance.
Limitations of Short-Term Health Insurance
Short term plans:
- are not Affordable Care Act-compliant. They don’t don’t cover things like preventive care, immunizations, maternity care, allergies, etc.
- do not cover pre-existing conditions.
- are not guaranteed issue. You can be denied for health reasons.
- are not guaranteed renewal. If you get sick, you may not be able to renew your coverage at the end of its term.
- do not exempt you from the tax penalty under the Affordable Care Act (this penalty went away in 2019).
- are available in Virginia for a limited length of time. Beginning with plans issued on/after September 1, 2024, the initial contract term is capped at three months. Furthermore, the maximum coverage period cannot exceed four months, including any renewals or extensions.
If you are currently uninsured and need temporary protection from an unexpected illness or injury, but cannot purchase permanent coverage at this time, we do recommend purchasing a short-term plan.
Even a short period without health insurance is not worth the risk.
Apply for Short-Term Coverage
Apply today for coverage as early as tomorrow.
- United Healthcare — for coverage in VA lasting up to 3 months
- Allied National / Pivot Health
Questions? Call us! 703.707.8270.
