What Is a Waiting Period?
A waiting period is the gap between when you enroll in a health insurance plan and when your coverage actually begins. During this time, you're enrolled but the plan won't pay for services.
Waiting Periods by Plan Type
- ACA marketplace plans: No waiting period for covered services. Coverage starts on the 1st of the month after enrollment (or January 1 during Open Enrollment). All essential health benefits and pre-existing conditions are covered from day one.
- Private ACA-compliant plans: Same as marketplace — no waiting periods, pre-existing conditions covered immediately.
- Employer plans: Can impose up to a 90-day waiting period. Federal law prohibits waiting periods longer than 90 days.
- Short-term plans: May have waiting periods for certain conditions. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded entirely.
- Supplemental plans: Often have 30-day waiting periods for illness (accidents may be covered immediately).
If you're between jobs: Employer plan waiting periods are a key reason to consider ACA marketplace or private coverage during the gap. A 90-day wait means 3 months without coverage — one ER visit during that time costs $2,500+ out of pocket. A marketplace plan with subsidies or a short-term plan can bridge the gap.
Related Terms
Last updated: March 30, 2026.
