If you’re struggling to find affordable health insurance in South Carolina, you’re not alone. Whether you’re self-employed, between jobs, or simply trying to lower your monthly expenses, getting the right health coverage at the lowest possible cost is essential — and more achievable than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most affordable ways to get health insurance in South Carolina, including Medicaid options, ACA subsidies, and short-term health plans. Each option is designed to help South Carolina residents get the care they need without breaking the bank.
If your goal is to get the cheapest health insurance that still offers real protection, keep reading — the right solution might already be available to you.
Medicaid in South Carolina: Free or Low-Cost Coverage for Those Who Qualify
If you’re searching for free or low-income health coverage in South Carolina, Medicaid may be your most affordable option. This government program provides no-cost or low-cost health insurance to individuals and families who meet certain income and eligibility requirements.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in South Carolina?
To qualify, you generally need to:
- Have a low income, based on household size
- Be pregnant, disabled, a parent, or under 19
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident living in South Carolina
For example, a single adult with an annual income below $20,000 may qualify for Medicaid, depending on other factors.
Tip: South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid, so most adults without children won’t qualify unless they meet specific criteria like disability or pregnancy.
What Does Medicaid Cost?
In many cases, Medicaid coverage is completely free, with no monthly premiums and minimal out-of-pocket costs. For eligible individuals, this is by far the cheapest health insurance option in South Carolina.
How to Apply
You can check your eligibility and apply for Medicaid through:
- The South Carolina Healthy Connections website
- Your local Department of Health and Human Services office
ACA Marketplace Plans: Affordable Health Insurance with Subsidies
If you don’t qualify for Medicaid but still need low-cost health insurance in South Carolina, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace may be your best option. Thanks to federal subsidies, many South Carolina residents can get comprehensive coverage at a fraction of the regular price.
How ACA Subsidies Work in South Carolina
ACA plans are available through HealthCare.gov, where your monthly premium can be reduced through:
- Premium Tax Credits – Lower your monthly payment
- Cost-Sharing Reductions – Lower your deductibles and copays (if eligible)
For example, a single adult earning around $30,000/year might qualify for a Silver plan that costs less than $50/month, sometimes even $0/month for a Bronze plan.
💡 Even if you think you earn too much, it’s worth checking — many middle-income families still qualify for subsidies.
What ACA Plans Cover
ACA plans include all 10 essential health benefits, such as:
- Doctor visits
- Prescription drugs
- Preventive care
- Emergency services
- Hospitalization
Unlike short-term insurance, these plans are guaranteed issue, meaning you can’t be denied for pre-existing conditions.
Enroll During Open Enrollment or Qualifying Life Events
- Open Enrollment: Nov 1 – Jan 15
- Special Enrollment: Available if you’ve lost coverage, moved, or had a life event
Short-Term Health Insurance in South Carolina: A Flexible, Low-Premium Option
Need temporary health insurance in South Carolina while between jobs, waiting for employer coverage, or just trying to keep costs down? Short-term health insurance may offer the affordable coverage you need — fast.
These plans are designed to fill gaps in coverage and often come with lower monthly premiums than traditional ACA plans. While they don’t offer the same level of benefits, they’re a practical solution for many healthy individuals and young adults looking to protect themselves from high medical costs.
How Short-Term Plans Work in South Carolina
- Coverage starts as soon as the next day
- As of Sept 1st, 2024, policies can last up to 3 months, with an option to renew for 1 additional month, allowing for a maximum of 4 months.
- No long-term contracts or open enrollment periods
Ideal for:
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- Recent college grads
- Freelancers or self-employed individuals
- People are waiting for ACA coverage to begin
What Do They Cost?
Short-term plans in SC can cost as little as $50–$150/month, depending on your age, health, and coverage level. That makes them one of the most affordable health insurance alternatives in South Carolina, especially for those who don’t qualify for ACA subsidies or Medicaid.
Know the Limitations
Before enrolling, it’s important to understand what short-term plans typically don’t cover:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Maternity care
- Mental health services
- Preventive care
But if you’re healthy and just want basic protection against unexpected medical bills, short-term insurance can deliver significant savings.
Which Affordable Health Insurance Option Is Right for You?
Still unsure which option is best? Here’s a simple comparison to help you find the cheapest and most suitable health insurance for your situation in South Carolina:
| Your Situation | Best Option | Estimated Monthly Cost | Key Benefits |
| Low income or unemployed | Medicaid | $0 | No premiums, full coverage, free preventive care |
| Moderate income (not Medicaid-eligible) | ACA Plan + Subsidies | $0 – $80 | Covers 10 essential benefits, lower deductibles via subsidies |
| Healthy, between jobs or newly self-employed | Short-Term Health Insurance | $50 – $150 | Low premiums, fast enrollment, flexible term lengths |
| Under 30 or hardship-exempt | Catastrophic ACA Plan | $90 – $200 | Emergency coverage, lower monthly cost |
No matter your budget, there’s a budget-friendly health insurance plan available in South Carolina. What matters most is matching the plan to your income level, medical needs, and coverage priorities.
Extra Ways to Save on Health Insurance in South Carolina
In addition to Medicaid, ACA subsidies, and short-term plans, there are a few extra strategies and resources that can help reduce your healthcare costs even further.
1. Use a Certified Navigator or Health Insurance Agent
Many South Carolina residents miss out on subsidies or get confused by plan details. Fortunately, state-certified navigators can help you enroll in the right plan at no cost. These professionals understand the system and can help you find the most cost-effective health insurance available based on your unique situation.
- You can find local help through CoverSC.org or Healthcare.gov
2. Explore Local Health Clinics and Nonprofit Assistance
There are community health centers throughout South Carolina that offer:
- Free or sliding-scale medical services
- Help with ACA enrollment
- Advice for uninsured individuals
These clinics are a vital resource for those needing cheap medical care without full insurance.
3. Consider Catastrophic Plans (if Eligible)
If you’re under 30 or qualify for a hardship exemption, catastrophic health plans may be a low-cost backup. They come with higher deductibles but protect you from major medical bills in worst-case scenarios.
For some users, catastrophic coverage can be cheaper than a Bronze plan — and still provide access to emergency care and basic benefits.
4. Don’t Over-Insure — Choose Only What You Need
If you’re young, healthy, or rarely visit a doctor, avoid paying for unnecessary coverage. Focus on:
- High-deductible plans with lower premiums
- Plans that include only the essentials you’ll realistically use
- Selecting in-network doctors to avoid surprise bills
Your Path to Affordable Health Insurance Starts Here
Finding the most affordable health insurance in South Carolina doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. Whether you’re eligible for Medicaid, qualify for ACA subsidies, or need a flexible short-term health plan, there are real options designed to fit your health needs and your budget.
At AHIX.com, we help individuals and families across South Carolina find low-cost coverage tailored to their situation. Our team is committed to simplifying the process—helping you compare plans, check for available subsidies, and enroll with confidence. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive protection or a temporary solution, we’ll help you discover the budget-friendly health insurance that offers true value and peace of mind.
If you’re ready to stop overpaying or going uninsured, the right plan could be just a few clicks away. Start now with AHIX and explore affordable health plans designed for South Carolina residents just like you.
Explore Your Affordable Health Insurance Options Today at AHIX.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the penalty for not having health insurance in South Carolina?
South Carolina does not impose a state-level penalty for going uninsured. While the federal individual mandate penalty was removed in 2019, it’s still risky to remain without coverage due to high out-of-pocket medical costs.
2. How can I reduce my out-of-pocket costs on a health insurance plan in SC?
You can lower your out-of-pocket expenses by choosing a plan with cost-sharing reductions (if eligible), staying in-network, and using preventive care benefits, which are typically covered at no cost under most qualified plans.
3. Are dental and vision plans included in affordable health insurance in SC?
Most basic health insurance plans do not automatically include dental or vision coverage for adults. However, standalone dental and vision plans are available in South Carolina at an additional cost and can be bundled for affordability.
4. Can I switch health insurance plans during the year in South Carolina?
Yes, but only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to life events like job loss, marriage, childbirth, or moving. Without a qualifying event, you must wait until the annual Open Enrollment period.
5. Is there health insurance assistance for freelancers and gig workers in SC?
Yes. Freelancers and self-employed individuals in South Carolina can qualify for ACA subsidies, short-term coverage, or even health-sharing plans. Subsidy amounts are based on income, not employment type, making many gig workers eligible for significant savings.
6. What’s the best way to compare low-cost health plans in South Carolina?
The fastest and most accurate way to compare affordable plans is through an authorized health insurance platform like AHIX.com, where you can instantly view available plans, pricing, and subsidy eligibility specific to your zip code and income.
7. Do student health insurance options exist in South Carolina?
Yes. Students may access coverage through their college or university, remain on a parent’s plan until age 26, or apply for an ACA plan with income-based subsidies. Affordable options are available even for part-time students.
