• Typical Durations:
  In most states, short term health plans can last up to 364 days and may be renewed for up to 3 years. However, California law bans the sale and renewal of short term health insurance plans. This means you cannot purchase short term health insurance from any insurer in California, regardless of your situation.

• Who It’s Best Suited For:
  In states where available, short term plans are typically best for people:

  • Between jobs

  • Waiting for employer-sponsored coverage to start

  • Recent college graduates

  • Self-employed individuals without group coverage

  • Early retirees not yet eligible for Medicare

  • Those who missed ACA open enrollment and do not qualify for a special enrollment period

Who Should Consider Short Term Health Plans in California?

Short term health insurance is not available in California.
If you are:

• Uninsured and need immediate coverage

• Self-employed and seeking flexible options

• A college student or recent graduate in transition

• Waiting for employer coverage or ACA open enrollment

• Ineligible for Medicaid or ACA subsidies

You will need to explore ACA-compliant plans through Covered California, Medi-Cal, or other alternatives, as short term plans are not permitted.

Short Term Health Insurance Laws in California

• State-Specific Regulations:
  California prohibits the sale and renewal of short term health insurance plans. This law is designed to ensure that all residents have access to comprehensive, ACA-compliant coverage.

• No Short Term Coverage:
  There are no legal short term health insurance options for California residents.

• ACA Alternatives:
  California encourages uninsured individuals to enroll in ACA-compliant plans through Covered California or to seek Medi-Cal if eligible.

How Much Does Short Term Health Insurance Cost in California?

• Not Available:
  Since short term health insurance is banned in California, there are no legal plans or pricing available.

• ACA Plan Costs:
  Instead, you can compare ACA plans, which average around $400–$600 per month for an individual before subsidies. Many Californians qualify for premium assistance or Medi-Cal, which can lower costs significantly.

• COBRA:
  If you recently lost employer coverage, COBRA may be an option, but it is often more expensive than ACA plans.

What Does Short Term Health Insurance Cover?

• Not Available in California:
  Short term plans are not sold in California. In other states, these plans typically cover:

  • Doctor visits

  • Urgent care

  • Emergency room visits

  • Hospitalization
    But they exclude:

  • Pre-existing conditions

  • Maternity care

  • Mental health and substance use treatment

  • Prescription drugs (may be limited or excluded)

  • Preventive services

  • Vision and dental care

• Not ACA-Compliant:
  Even if available, these plans do not meet ACA minimum essential coverage requirements.

Top Short Term Health Insurance Providers in California

There are no legal short term health insurance providers in California.
In other states, providers include UnitedHealthcare, National General, and Pivot Health, but these are not options for California residents.

How to Apply for Short Term Health Insurance in California

• Not Available:
  You cannot apply for short term health insurance in California.

• What to Do Instead:

  • Visit Covered California to compare ACA-compliant plans.

  • Check eligibility for Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program).

  • Contact a local, licensed health insurance agent or broker for help finding legal coverage options.

When Should You Enroll in a Health Plan in California?

• ACA Open Enrollment:
  Typically runs from November 1 to January 31 each year.

• Special Enrollment Periods:
  You may qualify for a special enrollment period if you’ve lost coverage, moved, had a baby, or experienced another qualifying life event.

• Medi-Cal:
  Enrollment is open year-round if you qualify based on income or other factors.

Short Term Health Insurance vs. ACA Plans in California

Pros of ACA Plans:

• Comprehensive coverage, including pre-existing conditions

• Subsidies and Medi-Cal available for many residents

• Legal and regulated in California

Cons:

• May be more expensive without subsidies (but help is available)

• Must enroll during open enrollment or qualify for a special period

Summary:
Short term health insurance is not available in California due to state law. If you need coverage, your best options are to shop for ACA-compliant plans through Covered California, check Medi-Cal eligibility, or speak with a local insurance agent for personalized help. This ensures you have comprehensive, legal protection for your health needs.