Medi Share Cost Calculator
Estimate your monthly share amounts based on household size, age, and AHP.
Your Estimated Results
*This is an estimate. Actual costs vary by zip code and health status.
What Is medi share cost calculator?
The medi share cost calculator is a specialized digital tool designed to help individuals and families estimate their monthly financial commitment to the Medi-Share program. Unlike traditional health insurance, Medi-Share is a health-sharing ministry where members contribute a "monthly share" to cover the medical bills of fellow members. This calculator simplifies the complex pricing structure of the Christian Care Ministry by analyzing three primary variables: the age of the oldest household member, the total number of people in the family, and the chosen Annual Household Portion (AHP). For those looking to transition away from high-premium ACA plans, this tool provides immediate transparency into the potential savings. It allows users to toggle between different AHP levels—which function similarly to a deductible—to see how their monthly "share" changes. By using this calculator, consumers can make data-driven decisions about their healthcare budget without having to navigate through dozens of PDF brochures. It is an essential resource for freelancers, small business owners, and faith-based families who require a clear picture of their recurring healthcare expenses in a non-insurance environment. Using data from CMS.gov, many find that health sharing offers a viable alternative to the marketplace.
How the Calculator Works
Our medi share cost calculator utilizes a weighted algorithm based on the latest available health-sharing tables. When you input your age, the calculator assigns a risk-base value; as individuals age, their statistical likelihood of requiring medical care increases, which is reflected in the monthly share amount. The household type selector (Single, Couple, or Family) determines the base tier of the contribution. Finally, the Annual Household Portion (AHP) works as an inverse variable: a higher AHP (like $12,000) significantly reduces your monthly share, while a lower AHP (like $3,000) increases it. The logic processes these inputs to provide a range that mimics the actual Medi-Share pricing tiers used by the Christian Care Ministry.
Why Use Our Calculator?
1. Instant Financial Comparison
Avoid the hassle of waiting for a sales representative to call you back. Our tool gives you instant figures so you can compare health sharing costs against your current insurance premiums immediately.
2. Budget Optimization
By adjusting the AHP levels in the calculator, you can find the perfect balance between your out-of-pocket maximum and your monthly cash flow requirements.
3. No Personal Data Required
Unlike official portals that may require an email or phone number to see rates, our calculator allows for anonymous browsing and planning, keeping your privacy intact.
4. Understanding the AHP Relationship
The calculator clearly demonstrates how increasing your "deductible" equivalent can lead to massive annual savings, helping you understand the mechanics of health sharing ministries.
5. Support for Small Business Owners
Entrepreneurs can use this tool to estimate the cost of providing a "sharing allowance" for their families or employees compared to traditional group plans found on HHS.gov.
How to Use the Calculator
Using the medi share cost calculator is straightforward. First, enter the age of the oldest person in your household. Next, select whether you are seeking coverage for just yourself, you and a spouse, or a full family. Then, select your preferred AHP level from the dropdown menu. Click the "Calculate" button to see your estimated monthly share. You can repeat this process as many times as needed to see how different age milestones or AHP levels affect the bottom line. For more detailed financial planning, check out our health savings calculator to see how to manage your medical funds.
Example Calculations
Example 1: The Young Professional. A 28-year-old single individual choosing a $3,000 AHP might see a monthly share of approximately $170. If they increase their AHP to $12,000, that cost could drop to under $100 per month.
Example 2: The Growing Family. A family of four with the oldest parent being 42 might pay around $550 per month with a $9,000 AHP. This is often significantly lower than a Silver-tier ACA plan for the same demographic.
Example 3: Pre-Retirement Couple. A couple aged 60 with a $6,000 AHP might see a monthly share of $850, reflecting the higher medical needs of their age bracket while still offering savings over traditional insurance.
Use Cases for Medi-Share Estimates
The most common use case is for individuals who are "exempt" from traditional insurance mandates or those seeking a community-based approach to medical costs. It is particularly popular during the open enrollment season when marketplace prices are released. Many users utilize these estimates to see if they should switch to a health-sharing model to save for a home or invest in an IRA. Additionally, users often pair these results with our insurance premium calculator to see the total cost-benefit analysis over a five-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Medi-Share the same as health insurance?
No, Medi-Share is a health-sharing ministry. It does not guarantee payment of medical bills and is not regulated like traditional insurance, though it has a long history of members sharing each others' burdens.
What is an Annual Household Portion (AHP)?
The AHP is the amount a household must pay for their own medical expenses before their bills are eligible for sharing among the community. It functions very similarly to an insurance deductible.
Can I use a Health Savings Account (HSA) with Medi-Share?
Generally, no. Because Medi-Share is not a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) as defined by the IRS, you cannot typically contribute new money to an HSA while using it, though you can use existing HSA funds for eligible expenses.
Does age really affect the cost that much?
Yes, age is one of the primary factors in determining your share amount. Medi-Share uses age brackets to ensure the program remains actuarially sound and fair for all participants.
Are there health incentives for lower costs?
Yes! Medi-Share offers a "Health Incentive" discount of up to 20% for members who meet certain health criteria, such as blood pressure, waist circumference, and BMI standards.
Conclusion
Determining your monthly healthcare costs shouldn't be a mystery. The medi share cost calculator provides the clarity needed to navigate the world of health-sharing ministries. By understanding the relationship between age, family size, and your chosen AHP, you can effectively manage your household budget while ensuring your family has access to a supportive community for medical needs. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur or a large family, this tool is your first step toward financial freedom in healthcare.