Do you own your own business, or freelance?  Are you working part-time and, therefore, not eligible for benefits?  Health insurance is extremely important as healthcare costs are going through the roof.  One of the ways to get health insurance is to join a trade association or some kind of formal group that provides health insurance for it’s members.  The American Automobile Association  (AAA) offers short term medical insurance for between 30 - 185 days which is cheaper than COBRA.  This is a good way to keep yourself insured without breaking the bank (crucial at a time when saving every penny counts).  They also offer permanent insurance for college students (up to age 63).  This is great for students who can’t go on their parent’s plan as dependents, or are international students, and can be a cheaper alternative to the college health insurance plans.   eHealth Insurance offers quotes for comparison for people seeking insurance for themselves and their families.  It allows you the flexibility to determine your deductible, compare coinsurance rates and see what your monthly payments will be.  Healthinsurance.org offers you the same options as well as links to websites that offer risk pools (insurance for people who cannot get insurance because of their medical/pre-existing conditions, more info or a change in their circumstances that makes them ineligible for benefits).