Between Jobs Coverage
Not sure what your plan actually covers?
One licensed agent. No call center.
October 11, 2026
Changing jobs often leaves a gap: your old coverage ends, and the new employer's plan doesn't start for a month or two. A gap is easy to ignore until something happens, so it's worth a quick plan.
First, check the dates
Find out exactly when your current coverage ends — often the last day of the month you leave — and when your new job's coverage begins. Some employers have a waiting period of 30, 60 or 90 days. Those two dates tell you how long the gap is.
Your options for the gap
- Continue your old employer's plan. You may be able to keep it for a while, but you'll usually pay the full cost yourself.
- A short-term plan. If you're healthy, a short-term plan can bridge a few months. Coverage can start soon after you apply, if you're approved. It usually won't cover conditions you already have, and many plans leave out maternity, preventive care and prescriptions.
- A spouse's plan. Losing your coverage may let you join a spouse's plan outside its normal sign-up window. Ask their employer quickly — there are deadlines.
Don't let the clock run out
Some of these options have short windows to sign up after your coverage ends. Start looking as soon as you know your last day.
Plan terms and availability vary by state. In Texas, short-term plans are limited to an initial term of up to 3 months and 4 months in total.
A licensed agent can compare these side by side and help you pick the one that fits how long your gap really is.
Not sure what your plan actually covers?
One licensed agent. No call center.