ACA Enrollment Isn’t Over in Florida: How You Can Still Get Health Insurance in 2026

If you missed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Open Enrollment deadline, you’re not alone — and here’s the good news:

ACA enrollment is still possible in Florida in 2026 through Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs).

Every week, thousands of Floridians qualify for health insurance outside Open Enrollment due to life changes. This guide explains who qualifies, what counts as a qualifying event, and how to get covered quickly.

Is ACA Enrollment Really Over?

The official Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for ACA plans typically ends in mid‑January. After that, most people assume they’re locked out for the year.

That’s not always true.

If you experience a qualifying life event, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in a new ACA plan — often with the same subsidies and $0–$50/month premiums available during Open Enrollment.

What Is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)?

A Special Enrollment Period is a window (usually 60 days) triggered by certain life events that let you enroll in or change ACA health plans.

In Florida, SEPs are one of the most common ways people get covered year‑round.

Common Qualifying Life Events in Florida (2026)

You may qualify for ACA enrollment right now if you’ve experienced any of the following:

1. Lost Health Coverage

• Job loss or reduced hours
• COBRA coverage ending
• Employer plan no longer offered
• Turning 26 and losing parent’s plan

2. Medicaid or CHIP Changes

• Medicaid redetermination or loss of eligibility
• Income increase making you ineligible for Medicaid

(This is extremely common in Florida.)

3. Household Changes

• Marriage or divorce
• Birth or adoption of a child
• Death of a household member

4. Moving to or Within Florida

• Moving to Florida from another state
• Moving to a new ZIP code with different plan options

5. Income Changes

• Becoming self‑employed
• Starting or stopping gig work
• Significant income increase or decrease

How Much Do ACA Plans Cost in Florida?

Many Floridians are surprised to learn that:

• Most people qualify for subsidies
• Some plans cost $0–$50 per month
• Preventive care is covered at no cost
• Pre‑existing conditions are always covered

The exact cost depends on:

• Household size
• Estimated 2026 income
• ZIP code
• Plan level (Bronze, Silver, Gold)

Silver plans often offer the best value for families and individuals who qualify for cost‑sharing reductions.

What If You Don’t Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?

If you don’t currently qualify for an SEP, there are still temporary and supplemental options that may help, including:

• Short‑term health plans (limited coverage)
• Fixed indemnity plans
• Dental and vision insurance

 These are not ACA plans and don’t offer the same protections — but they can help bridge gaps until the next Open Enrollment.

Why Work With a Local Florida ACA Agent?

Working with a licensed Florida agent means:

• No cost to you
• Help determining SEP eligibility
• Accurate income and subsidy estimates
• Access to multiple ACA carriers
• Ongoing support if your situation changes

At CoverPlus Health, we help Floridians understand their options clearly — without pressure or confusion.

How to Enroll in an ACA Plan Right Now

Getting started is simple:

• Check if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
• Compare available Florida ACA plans
• Enroll online or with licensed assistance

Most enrollments can be completed in 15–30 minutes.

Get Help with Florida ACA Enrollment Today

If you’ve lost coverage, moved, changed jobs, or had an income change, you may qualify right now.

Check your ACA eligibility today or speak with a licensed Florida agent at CoverPlus Health.

Enrollment assistance is free. No obligation.