Think You’re Stuck Uninsured? Short Term Health Insurance in SC, Just Made a Comeback & Changed Everything

Big Changes for Short Term Health Insurance Coverage

Short Term Health Insurance in South Carolina

When South Carolina & the rest of the country, cut short term health insurance. Down to a measly four months in 2024, many people lost a valuable safety net. Workers between jobs, families who missed ACA open enrollment, and early retirees had few options. That’s now changed in a big way: the state has reinstated "Short Term Medical Insurance Plans For Up to 33 months". For anyone who’s ever worried about falling through the cracks, this is huge news.

What Is Short Term Health Insurance?

Short term health insurance — sometimes called temporary health insurance — is exactly what it sounds like: coverage designed to fill a gap. Whether you’re waiting for new employer benefits, starting a business, or bridging the time until Medicare, these plans can be a lifesaver.

Unlike ACA marketplace coverage, short term insurance plans don’t always cover everything (like maternity care or pre-existing conditions) and, there is underwriting involved unlike the ACA plans. This means you can be denied coverage. But, if you are approved, they typically cover the big stuff: doctor visits, hospitalizations, urgent care, and prescription discounts. Plans also, have a maximum benefit dollar amount they will cover too. For someone who needs temporary health insurance between jobs, that protection can make all the difference.

Why 33 Months Matters in South Carolina

Limiting coverage to just four months left South Carolinians scrambling since ACA open enrollment only comes around once a year in November. (Unless you qualify for a "Special Enrollment Period") Four months isn’t enough when you’re waiting for Medicare to kick in or building a small business. By reinstating short term health insurance for up to 33 months, South Carolina is giving more people more options which means breathing room.

This extended option provides:

• Flexibility for gig workers and self-employed individuals who don’t get group insurance

• Coverage for early retirees who need something before Medicare eligibility

• A back-up plan if you missed ACA open enrollment

Think of it as a bridge — sometimes you don’t need all the bells and whistles of an ACA plan, you just need solid, reliable protection to carry you across.

Key Benefits of Short-Term Insurance Plans

1. Lower Monthly Premiums – Usually more affordable than ACA major medical insurance.

2. Quick Enrollment – Apply anytime of year; no need to wait until open enrollment.

3. Fast Approval – In many cases, coverage begins the next day.

4. Broad Provider Networks – Some carriers offer nationwide networks for care.

Yes, short term medical insurance won’t be right for everyone, but for those who value affordability and flexibility, it’s often the smartest choice.

FAQs About Short Term Health Insurance in South Carolina

Q: Can I keep coverage for the full 33 months? Yes. Most carriers allow either a single longer contract or a series of renewable short term insurance plans. Either way, the new rules mean you can stay covered for nearly three years.

Q: Does it cover pre-existing conditions? No. Like most temporary health insurance, these policies typically exclude pre-existing conditions. If you need guaranteed coverage, the ACA marketplace remains your best option.

Q: How is it different from ACA insurance? ACA plans are required to cover essential health benefits. Short term health insurance plans are designed as a stopgap, not a permanent solution. They don’t always cover things like maternity, preventive screenings, or mental health — but they can keep you from drowning in unexpected ER or hospital bills.

Why This Matters for Families and Workers

Here’s the hard truth: A single trip to the ER can cost thousands without insurance. A brief hospital stay could empty your savings.

By restoring short term health insurance South Carolina residents can keep for up to 33 months, the state has reopened an important pathway. Whether you’re in between jobs, an early retiree, or simply looking for temporary health insurance between jobs, this coverage buys you time and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Is Short Term Medical Insurance Right for You?

South Carolina’s decision to reinstate short term medical insurance for up to 33 months puts options back on the table for families, workers, and individuals who need them most. It may not be as comprehensive as ACA coverage, but for many, it’s a practical, affordable way to avoid financial disaster.

📞 Please contact our office if you have any questions or would like to know whether short term health insurance makes sense for you or your family. Call our office at (864) 868-5194 or Visit our Website to request more information.