Short-term health insurance: rules, costs and honest comparisons About Editorial policy Contact
S Short Term Cover Lab Independent coverage research
FAQ Entry database

FAQ Database

Every question buyers ask before signing a short-term application, answered without the sales framing.

Claims 2 Comparison 3 Cost 1 Coverage 2 Eligibility 1 Enrollment 2 Fine print 2 Rules 2
FAQ Entry

Short-term vs COBRA — which is better?

COBRA preserves comprehensive coverage but costs 102% of the full premium.

Topic ComparisonShort answer COBRA preserves comprehensive coverage but costs 102% of the full premium.
FAQ Entry

Are there annual or lifetime caps?

Yes — commonly $250,000 to $2 million per policy period.

Topic Fine printShort answer Yes — commonly $250,000 to $2 million per policy period.
FAQ Entry

What is a per-cause deductible?

A separate deductible applied to each unrelated condition.

Topic Fine printShort answer A separate deductible applied to each unrelated condition.
FAQ Entry

How fast are claims paid?

Typically 30–45 days after the provider submits documentation.

Topic ClaimsShort answer Typically 30–45 days after the provider submits documentation.
FAQ Entry

What is a qualifying life event?

Losing coverage, moving, marrying, having a child, or a change in income.

Topic EnrollmentShort answer Losing coverage, moving, marrying, having a child, or a change in income.
FAQ Entry

When can I buy a short-term plan?

Any day of the year — there is no open enrollment window.

Topic EnrollmentShort answer Any day of the year — there is no open enrollment window.
FAQ Entry

How long can I keep renewing?

Under federal rules, about four months total, with no renewal beyond that.

Topic RulesShort answer Under federal rules, about four months total, with no renewal beyond that.
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