Short-term Health Insurance in Wisconsin
Short-term health insurance provides temporary medical coverage for individuals and families. Unlike Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans, these policies do not have an annual open enrollment period—you can apply at any time during the year.
Short-term health plans are available to Wisconsin residents ages 18–64 who can pass medical underwriting. Coverage can begin as soon as the day after your application is approved.
Who Can Benefit from Short-Term Plans?
A temporary health insurance plan may be a good fit if you:
- Are between jobs and need coverage until your next employer plan begins
- Want an affordable alternative to COBRA
- Are a part-time or temporary employee without benefits
- Recently retired and are waiting for Medicare eligibility
- Are a young adult no longer eligible for a parent’s plan
- Need a short-term alternative to standard individual health insurance
Short-Term Health Insurance Rules in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, short-term health plans:
- Have an initial term limit of 364 days
- May be renewed, but the total coverage period cannot exceed 18 consecutive months
- Require less than 63 days between coverage periods to be considered consecutive
What Short-Term Health Plans Cover (and Don’t Cover)
Short-term health plans generally have lower monthly premiums than traditional health insurance, but they also provide less coverage.
Typically covered:
- Emergency care
- Some hospitalization costs
- Certain outpatient services
Not covered:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Preventive care
- Maternity coverage
- Mental health care
- Routine medical needs
Many policies also have waiting periods for illness coverage, so it’s important to review plan details carefully.
Is a Short-Term Health Plan Right for You?
If you’re young, healthy, and need temporary health coverage—whether you’re between jobs, waiting for other insurance to start, or looking for a short-term alternative to ACA plans—this option may help you stay protected.
If you’re looking for individual or family ACA coverage, visit Healthcare.gov.
Get Help Finding the Right Coverage
Short-term health insurance can be a smart solution in certain situations, but the right choice depends on your personal needs. We’ll help you compare plans, understand your coverage, and enroll with confidence.
Call us at 1-800-637-4676 or request information below to get started today.
Looking for information on health insurance for your employees? Click here.
Don’t forget to ask us about: Life, Disability, Medicare Supplements, Long Term Care, Vision and Dental.