If you’ve recently lost your job, graduated college, or need short-term coverage, you may be exploring temporary health insurance plans. These flexible policies are designed for people who need quick, affordable coverage for just a few weeks or months.
In this article, we’ll cover how temporary plans work, what they include (and exclude), and whether they’re a good fit for you.
What Are Temporary Health Insurance Plans?
These are short-duration policies—lasting from 30 to 364 days, with some renewable up to 3 years. Temporary health insurance plans offer basic coverage but are not ACA-compliant, meaning they don’t include essential benefits or coverage guarantees.
They are best for:
- Emergency situations
- Transitions between jobs
- Recent college grads
- Individuals outside Open Enrollment
Who Should Consider One?
You may benefit from a temporary health plan if you:
- Are between full-time jobs
- Missed the ACA enrollment period
- Are waiting for employer benefits to begin
- Aged off your parent’s plan
- Need quick protection for travel within the U.S.
These plans are ideal for healthy individuals who want low-cost coverage in case of accidents or illness.
What Do They Cover?
Most temporary medical plans cover:
- ER visits
- Doctor consultations
- Hospital stays
- Outpatient procedures
They typically do not cover:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Prescription drugs
- Maternity or mental health
- Preventive services
- Vision or dental care
Learn more at Healthcare.gov.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Low monthly premiums
- Fast approval (often same day)
- Flexible cancellation
- National provider networks
❌ Cons
- No ACA protections
- Denials based on medical history
- Limited coverage for chronic conditions
- Not eligible for subsidies
How Much Do They Cost?
Temporary health insurance plans are often much cheaper than standard ACA policies:
- Monthly premiums: $50–$250
- Deductibles: $1,000–$10,000+
- Co-pays and co-insurance vary
Keep in mind: lower premiums = higher risk of out-of-pocket expenses.
Top Providers Offering Temporary Plans
Some of the best-rated carriers include:
Compare quotes and review terms carefully.
Is a Temporary health insurance plans Right for You?
Ask yourself:
- Do I only need coverage for a few months?
- Can I afford high out-of-pocket costs?
- Do I have any existing health conditions?
If you’re healthy and need gap insurance, these plans can offer valuable peace of mind—just don’t expect comprehensive care.
Final Thoughts
Temporary health insurance plans serve as a solid option during life’s transitions. They’re affordable and quick to set up, but they won’t meet the needs of someone with ongoing health conditions or preventive care needs.
If you’re unsure, check out our Health Insurance 101 for broader options.