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3 Best Short-Term Health Insurance Companies

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated August 21, 2025

Short-term health insurance can offer valuable protection against high medical costs when you’re between jobs, waiting for coverage to begin, or need temporary, affordable care. Top providers stand out for their flexible plans, solid benefits, and reliable service. Comparing options based on cost, coverage, and ease of enrollment can help you find the plan that best fits your needs.

  • UnitedHealthcare

    UnitedHealthcare earns the title “Best for Provider Network” with its top-scoring Short Term Medical Plus Elite plan. It offers a coverage maximum of up to $2 million and a range of deductible options, including $2,500, $5,000, $7,500, $10,000, and $15,000. This flexibility makes it easier to tailor a plan to your health and budget needs.

    Our Expert Take

    UnitedHealthcare is recognized for its broad coverage area and flexible plan durations, with short-term options ranging from one month up to nearly a year. The online application process is fast and straightforward, allowing you to get insured quickly.

    Many plans cover prescription drugs and doctor visits, and some include additional benefits such as mental health support, urgent care access, and preventive services. Even if you move or travel, you can access a large national network of providers.

    It’s important to review each plan carefully, as coverage limits and exclusions may apply. Understanding the details helps you avoid unexpected costs and select the plan that best meets your needs.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros:

    • Wide range of plan options
    • Quick enrollment and approval process
    • Large national provider network
    • Some plans include mental health and prescription drugs
    • Flexible terms, from 1 to 12 months

    Cons:

    • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
    • Coverage is temporary, not ACA-compliant
    • Out-of-pocket costs may be high
    • Some services may have coverage limits
    • Not every option is available in all states

    State Availability

    UnitedHealthcare offers short-term health insurance in most states. You may find multiple plan choices, but your exact options depend on where you live.

    Some states have banned or restricted short-term health coverage, so plans may not be available everywhere. States such as California, New York, and Massachusetts do not allow short-term health insurance sales.

    UnitedHealthcare often has more options in states with fewer restrictions, such as Texas, Florida, and Illinois. Terms, lengths, and covered services can vary by state. Be sure to use their website or speak with an agent to see what plans you can get in your specific location.

  • Pivot Health

    Pivot Health is named “Best for 0% Coinsurance Option” for its top-scoring short-term plan, Epic Base. Coverage maximums range from $250,000 to $1 million, with deductible options of $2,500, $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000. This variety allows you to customize coverage based on your financial and medical needs.

    Our Expert Take

    Pivot Health provides a range of short-term plans, making it a convenient option if you need temporary coverage between jobs or other insurance options. The plans cover essentials such as doctor visits and some prescription drugs, which is not always included with other short-term insurers.

    The coverage details are straightforward, and you can often choose the level of protection you want. This makes Pivot Health a practical choice if you’re looking to manage costs or need basic coverage for emergencies. While it may not include all major medical benefits, it works well when traditional insurance is unavailable.

    A standout feature is prescription drug coverage, with some plans offering a $5 generic copay and preferred drug copays around $35. You can see any doctor, though in-network providers generally offer lower out-of-pocket costs. Most applications are processed quickly, with minimal waiting periods.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros:

    • Prescription drug coverage available, with low copays for many medications
    • Customizable plan options and coverage terms
    • Generally lower premiums than permanent health insurance
    • No long waiting periods; fast approval in many cases
    • You can apply online with a quick quote process

    Cons:

    • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
    • Not all plans include comprehensive benefits (like maternity or mental health)
    • Most plans have coverage caps (ex: $250,000 to $1 million total)
    • Network size may be smaller than traditional insurers
    • Limited wellness or preventive care benefits compared to ACA plans

    State Availability

    Pivot Health plans are available in many states, but exact availability can change due to state rules about short-term health insurance. You will find its plans in more than 30 states, including large markets like Texas and Florida.

    Some states do not allow short-term plans or have strict rules that limit coverage length and renewal. States like California, New York, and New Jersey do not permit these plans at all.

    If you are thinking about Pivot Health, check the latest state guidelines or the quoting tool on their website. State regulations can affect coverage length. Some states limit short-term coverage to under 3 months, while others allow up to 12 months and easy renewal.

  • Everest

    Everest is recognized as “Great for Low Premiums” with its top-rated Flex Term Health Insurance plan. Coverage maximums include $250,000, $750,000, $1 million, and $1.5 million, with deductible options ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. This makes it a flexible and affordable choice for temporary health insurance needs.

    Our Expert Take

    Everest provides short-term health insurance tailored for transitional periods, such as between jobs or while waiting for other coverage to start. Its Flex Term Medical plans are designed for durations under a year and give access to a broad network of healthcare providers.

    These plans generally cover doctor visits, select hospital services, and include prescription drug discounts. Monthly premiums tend to be more affordable than traditional insurance, though coverage limits are tighter and pre-existing conditions are excluded.

    As a financially stable insurer, Everest offers peace of mind despite the limited scope of short-term plans. It’s a practical solution for anyone needing temporary protection against unexpected medical expenses.

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • Lower premiums compared to standard health insurance
    • Fast application process with quick approval
    • Broad provider network with access to many doctors
    • Prescription discounts included
    • Perfect for short-term or transition periods
    • Backed by strong financial ratings (A.M. Best and S&P)

    Cons

    • Does not cover pre-existing conditions
    • Fewer benefits than standard long-term health plans
    • Coverage limits can be lower
    • Not available in every state
    • Some services and prescription costs may not be fully covered

    State Availability

    Everest short-term health insurance is available in many U.S. states, particularly across parts of the South, Midwest, and West. Because state laws differ, coverage availability and plan features can vary depending on where you live.

    Some states limit how long you can stay on a plan or restrict certain benefits. Confirm with Everest to see if they cover your area and to learn about any state-specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I compare coverage options between different short-term health plans?

When choosing a short-term health insurance plan, review what’s included—such as doctor visits, emergency care, and prescription drug coverage. Be sure to check details like coverage limits, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts. Some plans exclude services like maternity care or treatment for pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to understand the plan’s exclusions and payout limits to avoid unexpected costs.

What are the typical costs associated with short-term health insurance policies?

You usually pay a monthly insurance premium that is lower than ACA-compliant plans. Most plans have a deductible you must meet before coverage begins, and some include coinsurance, which is your share of the costs after the deductible.

Out-of-pocket costs, such as copays for doctor visits and prescription drugs, may also apply. Short-term plans can cost as little as $55 per month, but may offer fewer benefits compared to traditional insurance.

Can I get short-term health insurance if I’m between jobs, and how does that process work?

Yes, you can apply for short-term health insurance at any time, especially if you’re between jobs or waiting for employer coverage to begin. These plans are available year-round without needing to wait for an open enrollment period. Simply choose a plan, fill out an application, and coverage can often start within a few days.

What are the main differences between short-term and traditional health insurance plans?

Short-term health plans are designed for temporary needs and usually last from 30 days to 12 months. They are not required to follow Affordable Care Act rules, so they can refuse coverage for pre-existing conditions and may not cover services like maternity care.

Traditional health insurance (including ACA-compliant plans) covers a broader range of services, often with higher monthly premiums and longer coverage periods. Short-term plans are generally less expensive but offer fewer protections and benefits.

How can consumers review the credibility and customer service of short-term health insurance companies?

Check ratings from well-known organizations and read customer reviews to learn about a company’s reputation. Look for details on the provider network, claims process, and customer support.

Make sure the company is licensed in your state and see if it works with major networks or groups like UnitedHealthcare. Research complaints and satisfaction scores before making a final choice.