Your Main Options
Agency Health Insurance
Most agencies offer plans, but quality varies. Some provide excellent day-one coverage; others have waiting periods and high premiums. Agency insurance usually reduces take-home pay since costs are built into your package. Ask to see numbers with and without.
ACA Marketplace Plans
Healthcare.gov plans are portable — keep the same plan regardless of agency. Can't deny pre-existing conditions. Open enrollment November–January; losing employer coverage triggers special enrollment.
Short-Term Health Insurance
Popular for bridging gaps. $100–250/month, up to 12 months, renewable. Real coverage for doctor visits, emergencies, hospitalizations. Pre-existing conditions usually excluded, but practical for healthy travelers needing affordable bridge coverage.
Spouse or Partner's Plan
Often the simplest and most cost-effective option if available.
Never go uninsured. Short-term insurance at $100–250/month is far cheaper than COBRA ($500–700+/month) for covering gaps between contracts. Can be activated within days.