There are several reasons you might need short term health insurance coverage in Ohio. Most often, it’s simply to fill in a small gap before permanent coverage begins a few months later. Other times, it’s used as a less expensive alternative to ACA plans. Either way, we can help.
Depending on your needs, short term plans can be purchased for several months. In fact some companies are now offering plans that will last for two to three years. This means you only need to pass medical underwriting once. Your plan will then be effective for the entire term you choose.
It’s wise to have your short term plan end on the calendar year. This works best in case you’d like to use the Open Enrollment window that runs from November 1 to December 15th to purchase an ACA policy. Marketplace (On-Exchange) plans are more comprehensive and might better fit your needs long term. We’ll help you time up your policies so there are no gaps in coverage.
It’s important to know that losing short term health insurance is not considered a qualifying life event in Ohio. If your health changed and your policy ended in June, then you may not be able to renew it. And you would have to wait until the fall for Open Enrollment to purchase an Affordable Care Act plan.
If you are outside of the Open Enrollment window, you will need proof of a QLE in order to purchase permanent coverage. Moving from one state to another (and losing existing health insurance) is considered a QLE, but your coverage may not start right away. A short term plan can fill in any gaps you may encounter.
Why a short term policy? First off, they are usually much less expensive than most ACA plans. Secondly, these plans are more comprehensive than before. Many offer preventive care, doctor’s office copays, and prescriptions coverage. Policies can be found with annual maximums of up to two million dollars. They are great for those who are in good health and want to keep their rates low.
Who doesn’t short term insurance work for? This coverage won’t work for those with health issues or significant preexisting conditions. They are medically underwritten which means you can be turned down. They don’t cover maternity coverage and/or expensive medications. You’ll want to discuss your situation with us before purchasing this coverage. And if you qualify for a large tax credit, then an ACA plan can be your least expensive option by far.