Many workers across the U.S. rely on their employers to provide health coverage. But what if a company doesn’t offer health insurance? This is a common concern, especially among part-time workers, small business employees, freelancers, and those in the gig economy.
If you’re in this situation, don’t worry. You still have several options to get quality health coverage—many of which are affordable or even free, depending on your income.
Are Companies Legally Required to Offer Health Insurance?
If you’re wondering what if a company doesn’t offer health insurance, the first thing to understand is that not all employers are required to provide it.
Here’s how the law works:
- Companies with 50 or more full-time employees are legally required under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to offer health insurance or pay a penalty.
- Companies with fewer than 50 employees are not obligated to offer insurance.
- Part-time employees and contractors are usually not covered, even in large organizations.
So if you work for a small business, a restaurant, a startup, or in freelance roles, your employer may not provide any benefits at all. But that doesn’t mean you’re left without options.
What If a Company Doesn’t Offer Health Insurance? Explore These Options
If your employer doesn’t offer a health plan, you can still secure your own coverage through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace or other government programs.
1. Apply for an ACA Health Plan
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals to buy their own health insurance. Based on your income and family size, you may qualify for premium tax credits that lower your monthly payments—and sometimes even make your premium $0/month.
These plans include:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Emergency services and hospitalization
- Prescription medications
- Mental health treatment
- Preventive services and screenings
You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you recently lost employer coverage or had a life change like moving, getting married, or turning 26.
2. Check Eligibility for Medicaid
Depending on your state and income, you might qualify for Medicaid, a public health program offering free or low-cost insurance. This is especially useful if you work part-time, are between jobs, or are just starting your career.
3. Enroll in a Spouse or Parent’s Plan
If your spouse or parent has employer-sponsored insurance, you may be eligible to join their plan. This is common for:
- Spouses with access to family coverage
- Young adults under 26 staying on a parent’s plan
4. Consider a Short-Term Insurance Plan
As a last resort, short-term insurance can provide limited coverage while you search for a long-term solution. It’s not ACA-compliant, but it may help in emergencies.
How A+ Insurance Designers Can Help You Get Covered—At No Cost
Still wondering what if a company doesn’t offer health insurance? That’s where A+ Insurance Designers comes in. We help people just like you enroll in affordable health insurance plans—100% free of charge.
Here’s how we make the process easy:
Personalized Plan Search
We help you explore all your options—whether ACA plans, Medicaid, or other programs—based on your budget and health needs.
Free Eligibility Check
We quickly determine if you qualify for subsidies or $0 /month premiums under the ACA.
Complete Enrollment Support
No confusing forms or deadlines to track. A+ Insurance Designers handles it all for you, so your application is submitted correctly the first time.
Multilingual Assistance
Available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
Ongoing Help After Enrollment
Need to renew or update your plan next year? We’ll be there to help, still for free. You don’t need to be a health insurance expert. A+ Insurance Designers will guide you every step of the way.
If you’ve been asking what if a company doesn’t offer health insurance, the answer is simple: you have options. Whether through the ACA Marketplace, Medicaid, or a family plan, you can get the care you need without employer coverage.
The most important thing is to take action, and with A+ Insurance Designers, you’ll get expert guidance at no cost to you.
