What is accident insurance?
Accident insurance pays a set cash benefit when you're hurt in a covered accident and get treatment. The policy's schedule lists what it pays for each injury or service, such as an ER visit, X-ray, fracture, stitches or hospital stay.
It's different from AD&D insurance, which pays a lump sum only for death or a severe loss like a limb or eyesight. Accident insurance pays for everyday injuries too.
When accident insurance can be the right choice
- You have a health plan with a deductible and want help with the first bills after an injury.
- You or your kids are active, play sports, or have a physical job.
- An injury would cost you income, and you want money coming in while you recover.
- You want simple coverage that usually doesn't ask about your health.
When an ACA plan is the better first step
- You don't have a health plan. Accident benefits are set amounts and can be far less than the bill. Illness isn't covered at all. Get an ACA or job-based plan first.
- You may qualify for premium tax credits. Those only apply to Marketplace health plans.
What it pays
Depending on the policy, set amounts for:
- Emergency room or urgent care visits after an accident
- Ambulance rides
- Fractures, dislocations, burns and lacerations
- Hospital admission and each day in the hospital
- Follow-up visits, physical therapy and medical equipment
- In some plans, an accidental death benefit
What it doesn't pay
- Sickness or disease of any kind.
- The rest of your bill. If care costs more than the benefit, you owe the difference.
- Injuries listed as exclusions, which often include self-inflicted injuries, injuries while intoxicated, and some high-risk activities.
- Anything above the policy's limits.
How it compares to an ACA plan
| Accident insurance | ACA plan | |
|---|---|---|
| What's covered | Covered injuries from accidents only | Illness and injury, including 10 essential health benefits |
| How it pays | Set amounts to you | Pays providers, after your share |
| Yearly out-of-pocket limit | None | Yes |
| Premium tax credits | No | Yes, if you qualify |
| Minimum essential coverage | No | Yes |
Costs and how it's priced
Premiums are usually lower than health insurance and depend on who's covered (you, your spouse, your children) and the benefit levels you choose. Some plans price by occupation. An agent can show you exact prices.
How to get it with a licensed agent
1. Start with your health coverage. We'll make sure you have, or can get, a health plan first. 2. Choose who to cover and the benefit level. 3. Compare policies from the insurance companies we represent in your state: schedule of benefits, limits and exclusions. 4. Apply, then file claims with the insurance company after a covered injury.
Frequently asked questions
Does accident insurance cover illness?
No. It pays only for injuries from a covered accident.
Is it the same as AD&D?
No. AD&D pays only for accidental death or a severe loss like a limb or eyesight. Accident insurance also pays for common injuries like fractures and ER visits.
Can I have it with my ACA plan?
Yes. Many people use it to help with their deductible and copays after an injury.
Can I use my premium tax credit for it?
No. Tax credits only apply to Marketplace health plans.
Important information
This accident-only policy pays set benefits only for covered injuries caused by an accident. Illness and disease are not covered. It has exclusions, limitations, reductions of benefits, and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. It is not health insurance and does not count as minimum essential coverage. For costs and complete details of the coverage, call a licensed insurance agent at 1-877-861-3558.
Offered by First Health Solution, LLC d/b/a Health Enrollment, a licensed insurance agency (NPN 17718619). Insurance is underwritten by the insurance companies we represent. Not a government agency. Not available in all states.
Last reviewed October 2026. Not available in all states. This page is general information; see the policy for complete terms.