Individual Health Insurance, Purchased Directly From the Carrier

The coverage itself is often very similar or identical — many off-exchange plans are still ACA-compliant with the same essential health benefits. The difference is how you buy it: Marketplace plans are purchased through HealthCare.gov and can come with a subsidy; off-exchange plans are purchased directly from the carrier and are never eligible for a premium tax credit.

These are different products. Off-exchange plans are typically full, ACA-compliant major medical coverage — same essential health benefits, same guaranteed-issue protections in most cases. Short-term medical plans are limited-duration, medically underwritten, and generally don't have to cover pre-existing conditions. Off-exchange is a long-term coverage option; short-term is meant to bridge a gap.

If you qualify for a subsidy, buying through the Marketplace almost always costs less — you should start there. Off-exchange makes the most sense once you've confirmed you don't qualify for a subsidy, or when a specific carrier or plan you want isn't offered on the Marketplace.

Yes. We'll check your subsidy eligibility first, since that usually settles the question, then compare on-exchange and off-exchange options if you're not subsidy-eligible — at no cost to you.