Being self-employed in Florida can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, one of the biggest being securing affordable health insurance. Without the option of employer-sponsored coverage, self-employed individuals must find health insurance plans that are both budget-friendly and comprehensive.
In this article, we will explore some of the best and cheapest health insurance options for self-employed workers in Florida in 2025. Whether you’re a freelancer, contractor, or small business owner, we’ve got you covered with options that can keep you healthy without breaking the bank.
1. Health Insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Healthcare.gov)
Eligibility: Self-employed individuals can apply for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, also known as Healthcare.gov. If your income is between 100% to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for subsidies to help lower your premiums.
Plans Available: The Marketplace offers three main types of health insurance plans:
Bronze Plans: The cheapest plans, but with higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
Silver Plans: A balanced option with moderate premiums and deductibles.
Gold Plans: Higher premiums, but lower out-of-pocket costs.
Pros:
Subsidies: You may qualify for premium tax credits based on your income, which can significantly reduce monthly premiums.
Wide Selection: You can compare multiple insurance plans from different insurers to find the best deal.
No Pre-existing Condition Exclusion: Marketplace plans can’t deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions.
Cons:
Limited plan options: Depending on your income and the level of coverage you need, plans can sometimes be more expensive than expected.
Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even the most affordable plans may come with high deductibles, co-pays, or coinsurance.
How to Apply: Visit Healthcare.gov to explore plans, compare options, and apply for coverage. Open enrollment typically runs from November through January, but you can apply year-round if you have a qualifying event.
2. Florida Medicaid for Low-Income Self-Employed Individuals
Eligibility: If your income is extremely low, you may qualify for Florida Medicaid. Medicaid offers free or low-cost coverage, and eligibility is based on income, household size, and assets. The income limit for Medicaid eligibility is higher in Florida than in some other states.
Coverage: Medicaid covers:
Doctor visits
Prescription drugs
Hospital and emergency care
Preventive care (vaccines, screenings, etc.)
Mental health services
Pros:
Low or no cost: Medicaid is the most affordable option for low-income individuals and families, with very few out-of-pocket expenses.
Comprehensive coverage: Includes a wide range of medical services, including preventative care and specialized treatments.
Cons:
Income restrictions: Only available if your income is below the state’s threshold, which might not be applicable to most self-employed individuals.
Limited provider network: Medicaid recipients often have fewer choices for doctors and healthcare providers.
How to Apply: You can apply for Florida Medicaid through the ACCESS Florida website or by visiting a local Department of Children and Families office.
3. Health Savings Account (HSA) Qualified Plans
Eligibility: A Health Savings Account (HSA) allows you to save for medical expenses on a tax-deferred basis. You must be enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) to qualify for an HSA. These plans are generally cheaper because they have higher deductibles.
Coverage: These plans typically cover:
Preventive care at no cost
Emergency services
Doctor visits
Prescription drugs
Pros:
Tax advantages: Contributions to your HSA are tax-deductible, and you can use the funds tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
Lower premiums: HDHPs generally come with lower premiums compared to other plans.
Control over funds: You own the HSA account, and the funds can roll over year after year.
Cons:
High deductibles: These plans require you to pay more out-of-pocket costs before insurance kicks in.
Not ideal for those with high medical expenses: If you anticipate high medical needs, you may find this plan less beneficial due to the high deductibles.
How to Apply: You can find HDHPs that qualify for HSA through the Health Insurance Marketplace or by speaking with insurance providers that offer HSA-qualified plans.
4. Short-Term Health Insurance Plans
Eligibility: Short-term health insurance is available for self-employed individuals who need temporary coverage, perhaps during a gap between jobs or while waiting for Marketplace coverage to begin. These plans are typically offered by private insurers.
Coverage: Short-term plans often cover:
Doctor visits
Emergency services
Prescription medications
Pros:
Affordable: Short-term plans are usually cheaper than other types of health insurance.
Quick coverage: Coverage can start quickly, often within a day or two of applying.
Cons:
Limited coverage: These plans often have exclusions for pre-existing conditions and may not cover all necessary services.
Short duration: These plans are only designed for temporary coverage, usually lasting up to 12 months.
How to Apply: Research insurance providers that offer short-term health insurance plans in Florida. These plans can be purchased directly from insurance companies or brokers.
5. Catastrophic Health Insurance Plans
Eligibility: Catastrophic health insurance is a high-deductible plan designed for individuals under 30 and those with a hardship or affordability exemption. While these plans come with low premiums, they require you to pay the first portion of your healthcare costs (deductible) before coverage kicks in.
Coverage: Catastrophic plans provide coverage for:
Essential health benefits after the deductible is met
Preventive care at no cost
Pros:
Low premiums: These plans offer some of the cheapest premiums available.
Essential coverage: Provides coverage for essential health benefits, including hospitalization and emergency services.
Cons:
High deductibles: You’ll pay a high deductible before most benefits kick in.
Limited coverage: These plans are designed for worst-case scenarios, and you’ll still have to pay a significant amount out-of-pocket for regular care.
How to Apply: Catastrophic health plans can be found through the Health Insurance Marketplace. They are available to individuals under 30 or those who qualify for a hardship exemption.
6. Private Health Insurance Plans
Eligibility: Self-employed individuals can also purchase health insurance directly from private insurers in Florida. These plans are offered by major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, Aetna, and Cigna.
Coverage: Private plans typically offer comprehensive coverage that includes:
Doctor visits
Prescription medications
Emergency care
Preventive services
Pros:
Flexible options: You can choose from a variety of plans based on your needs and budget.
Comprehensive coverage: These plans often offer more robust coverage compared to other options.
Cons:
Higher premiums: Compared to other types of coverage, private plans often come with higher premiums, particularly if you don’t qualify for subsidies.
May not be eligible for subsidies: Depending on your income, you might not qualify for subsidies through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
How to Apply: You can purchase private health insurance plans directly from providers or through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest health insurance as a self-employed individual in Florida in 2025 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. From Health Insurance Marketplace plans with premium subsidies to Medicaid for those with low income, Short-Term Plans, and Health Savings Account (HSA)-eligible options, there are numerous solutions to make sure you stay covered while keeping costs low.
Each option has its pros and cons, and the best plan for you will depend on your income, healthcare needs, and eligibility for government subsidies. Be sure to compare your options and apply during open enrollment periods to ensure you get the best deal for your health and budget.
For more information on how to apply for these plans, visit the Health Insurance Marketplace or speak with an insurance broker who specializes in self-employed workers.