Is Short-Term Health Insurance Allowed in New Hampshire?
No. The sale of short-term health insurance plans is not permitted in New Hampshire. This restriction means residents must look to other forms of health insurance when experiencing a gap in coverage, such as job transitions, aging off a parent’s plan, or waiting for employer-based benefits to begin.
New Hampshire is one of several states, including Maine, New Mexico, and Washington, D.C., that have banned the sale of short-term medical plans.
2024 Federal Rule Changes and New Hampshire’s Position
As of September 1, 2024, new federal regulations reduce the maximum duration of short-term health insurance to 3 months, with a 1-month renewal option, for a total of 4 months. However, this change does not apply to New Hampshire, as the state does not allow short-term plans at all.
If you reside in New Hampshire, you must choose from ACA-compliant or other approved health coverage options.
What Are Your Options if Short-Term Health Insurance is Not Available?
If you’re in New Hampshire and need coverage between major medical plans, here are your best alternatives:
ACA Marketplace Plans
You can enroll in a comprehensive ACA-compliant plan during Open Enrollment or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events such as job loss, marriage, or income change. These plans include essential health benefits and cannot deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Medicaid
Depending on your income level and household size, you may qualify for Medicaid in New Hampshire. This state-run program offers full health coverage at little to no cost, including doctor visits, hospital stays, preventive care, and more.
