Short-term health insurance offers a fast, affordable solution for temporary coverage. These plans are ideal for individuals between jobs, those waiting for Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage to begin, or those who simply need a "safety net" for a brief period. What is Short-Term Health Insurance? Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage, typically lasting from 30 days to 12 months (though state regulations vary significantly). You might need this if you: Recently lost a job and aren't opting for COBRA. Missed the ACA Open Enrollment period. Are waiting for employer-sponsored coverage to kick in. Need "catastrophic only" protection for emergencies. ⚠️ Important Note: These plans are not ACA-compliant. They do not cover the "10 Essential Health Benefits" and can deny coverage based on medical history. Top Providers for 2026 1. UnitedHealthcare (Golden Rule Insurance Co.) Best For: Individ...