As access to traditional workplace benefits continues to decline among growing numbers of gig workers and retirees, Guardian is expanding its individual dental, vision, and accident insurance offerings to fill the gap.
The new and enhanced plans are aimed at consumers who don’t receive benefits through an employer—such as independent contractors, part-time workers, and those exiting the workforce. The insurer, one of the largest providers of dental benefits in the U.S., announced the changes on Monday.
“Regardless of whether someone is exiting the workforce to enjoy retirement or taking their first steps as an entrepreneur, we’re committed to ensuring our customers have the insurance protections they need, when they need them,” said Mayra Garza, head of group benefits strategy and retail segment at Guardian.
Expanded dental and bundled plans available directly to consumers
Guardian is introducing a new Premier dental plan, available directly to individuals. The Preferred Provider Plan (PPO) includes an annual maximum benefit of $3,000 and covers services such as teeth whitening and implants. The plan provides access to Guardian’s 130,000-provider network.
In addition, the company is offering a bundled plan that combines dental, vision, and hearing coverage in a single product. It is being launched in partnership with Kelsey National and VSP Individual Plans.
Accident coverage also refreshed
Guardian has also updated its individual accident insurance product, which pays a benefit to individuals or their dependents following a covered injury. The refreshed policy is now one of the few available directly to consumers.
The company said its goal is to address both health and financial security for those outside the traditional employment structure. According to Guardian’s internal research, about half of Americans say they would face financial hardship without workplace benefits.
Responding to changing workforce needs
The expansion reflects a broader shift in the labor market, where more Americans are working independently or aging out of employer-sponsored plans. Guardian said the new offerings are designed to support consumers’ “mind, body, and wallet” well-being.
Founded more than 165 years ago, Guardian is based in New York City and reported a record $1.6 billion dividend allocation for 2025. The company provides life, disability, dental, and other insurance products to individuals and businesses across the United States.
