Short-term plans are cheap — but they come with major coverage gaps that can leave you with massive bills. Here's the honest comparison so you can decide.
See All My Options →| Feature | Short-Term Plan | ACA Marketplace Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly premium | $50–$200/mo | $0–$350/mo (with subsidies) |
| Pre-existing conditions | ❌ Excluded | ✅ Fully covered |
| Mental health coverage | Often excluded | ✅ Required |
| Maternity coverage | ❌ Not covered | ✅ Required |
| Prescription drugs | Often limited | ✅ Required |
| Benefit cap | Often $1M–$2M limit | ✅ No annual/lifetime cap |
| ACA subsidies | ❌ Not eligible | ✅ Up to 100% covered |
| Available year-round | ✅ Yes | Only with qualifying event |
| Coverage length | 1–12 months | Full year |
| Age | Est. Monthly Premium | Typical Deductible | Benefit Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 years old | $50–$90/mo | $2,500–$5,000 | $1M–$2M |
| 35 years old | $80–$140/mo | $2,500–$5,000 | $1M–$2M |
| 45 years old | $130–$200/mo | $2,500–$7,500 | $1M–$2M |
| 55 years old | $190–$320/mo | $2,500–$7,500 | $1M–$2M |
Estimates only. Actual rates vary by state, insurer, and health history.
Our licensed brokers compare short-term plans, ACA options, and private coverage side by side — and give you an honest recommendation for your situation. Free.
Get a Free Honest Comparison →Federal rules allow short-term plans up to 4 months initially, with renewals up to 3 years total. However, some states have stricter limits — California and New York ban short-term plans entirely. Check your state's rules.
Most short-term plans cover emergency care, but subject to your deductible and only if the condition isn't considered pre-existing. Always read the exclusions. An emergency related to a pre-existing condition may not be covered.
Losing a job is an ACA Special Enrollment Period trigger — you can get a full ACA plan with subsidies, which is almost always a better deal than short-term. Only choose short-term if you have a very brief gap (1-2 months) and are confident you're healthy.
No. California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and several other states ban or severely restrict short-term plans. In most states we serve, short-term plans are available but we recommend comparing them against ACA options first.