Short-Term Health Insurance Plans

Temporary Health Coverage When You Need It Most

Short-term health insurance is designed to help when life leaves you without coverage. These temporary plans can bridge the gap between jobs, cover you if you miss ACA Open Enrollment, or provide a more affordable option if Marketplace premiums feel out of reach. While they aren’t ACA-compliant, they offer flexible enrollment, lower premiums, and coverage that can begin as soon as the next day.

Plan Features and Limitations

Short-term health plans come with both advantages and trade-offs. Here’s what to know before you choose:

Pros

  • Lower monthly premiums than ACA plans

  • Year-round enrollment, with coverage starting quickly

  • Flexible term lengths, often up to 12 months

Cons

  • Not ACA-compliant; may exclude maternity, mental health, or prescriptions

  • Can deny coverage for pre-existing conditions

  • Benefit caps may apply for certain services

Our Short-Term Plans

FD Insurance Agency works with trusted carriers like Allstate Health Solutions to provide short-term plans that fit a variety of needs. Policies can often be tailored with choices in deductibles and benefit levels. We’ll walk you through the details so you understand what is and isn’t covered, ensuring there are no surprises down the road.

Switching to ACA When Possible

Short-term insurance is best used as a stopgap. When Open Enrollment arrives—or if you experience a qualifying life event—we’ll help you switch into a Marketplace plan for more comprehensive benefits. This way, you’re never left guessing about your long-term options.

When to Consider Short-Term Plans

 Short-term coverage can be the right fit in several situations:

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Between jobs or waiting for benefits
Coverage while transitioning from one job’s insurance to the next.

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Missed ACA Open Enrollment
Stay insured until the next chance to sign up for Marketplace coverage.

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Looking for lower premiums
Provides some protection when ACA plans are too costly.

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Young and healthy individuals

A basic safety net against unexpected accidents or illnesses.

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Preparing for 2026 changes

With ACA costs expected to rise, more families may turn to short-term plans.

Short-Term Insurance FAQs

  • Can I enroll in a short-term plan anytime?

    Yes. Enrollment is open year-round, and coverage can often begin within days.

  • How long can I have short-term insurance?

    In Kansas and nearby states, coverage typically lasts up to 364 days and can sometimes be renewed up to 36 months.

  • Do short-term plans cover pre-existing conditions or prescriptions?

    Generally no. They’re meant for unexpected medical events, not ongoing conditions.

  • Will I pay a penalty for not having ACA insurance?

    There’s no federal penalty today, but short-term plans don’t qualify as ACA minimum essential coverage.

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Let’s talk through your needs and see whether a short-term plan, an ACA option, or a combination with supplemental coverage makes the most sense for you.