School’s Out for Summer — But Is Your Health Coverage Ready?
Summer is finally here. School is out, families are traveling, kids are staying active, and many people are changing jobs, working seasonal positions, or taking on contract work during the warmer months. While everyone is focused on vacations and summer plans, one important thing often gets overlooked — health insurance coverage.
A lot of people don’t realize there are private health insurance options available outside of traditional employer plans or the Marketplace. Private underwritten health insurance plans can offer individuals and families more flexibility, better networks, and lower monthly costs depending on health and eligibility.
For self-employed individuals, 1099 workers, small business owners, or families who may be losing coverage during the summer months, private plans are becoming a popular alternative. These plans are designed for people who want customizable coverage that fits their lifestyle and budget.
Summer is also a busy season for travel, outdoor activities, sports, and family events. Accidents and unexpected medical situations can happen anytime, which makes having the right coverage even more important. The last thing anyone wants is to deal with expensive medical bills during what should be a relaxing season.
At Posey Health Solutions, we help individuals and families explore private health insurance options that fit their specific needs. Whether you are looking for lower premiums, better benefits, nationwide networks, or coverage for your family, we can help you compare plans and understand your options.
A quick family coverage checklist for summer
Summer is when families travel, kids play more sports, and older children head off to college or summer jobs. A few minutes now can prevent a surprise bill later:
Check your network outside your home area. If a child will spend the summer or the school year in another state, a plan with a broad PPO network is often easier than a local HMO.
Look at dental and vision. Kids' checkups, glasses and orthodontic visits add up quickly. Standalone dental, vision and accident plans can sit alongside your main policy.
Think about sports injuries. An accident plan pays cash after a covered injury, which can help with a high deductible.
Recheck your income estimate. For 2027, Marketplace subsidies stop above $132,000 for a family of four. If your household is near that line, see how the 2027 limits work.
Rules and carriers vary by state, so start with your state guide or call me and I will walk through your family's options.
If you have questions about your current coverage or want to see if a private plan could be a better fit, now is a great time to review your options before the rest of the year flies by.
Enjoy your summer knowing you have coverage that works for you and your family.
Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Served
Every Memorial Day, we take time to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice has protected the freedoms we enjoy every day, and this holiday serves as a reminder of the courage, dedication, and selflessness shown by our military heroes.
At Posey Health Solutions, we are grateful for the individuals and families who have served our nation. Memorial Day is not only a time for gatherings and the start of summer, but also a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday and recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
If you are reviewing your family's coverage this summer, my state health insurance guides are a good place to start.
As you spend time with family and friends this Memorial Day, we encourage everyone to pause for a moment of gratitude and remembrance. Whether attending a local event, displaying the American flag, or simply sharing stories of loved ones who served, every act of remembrance helps keep their legacy alive.
From our family to yours, we wish you a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.
Why Private Health Insurance Is Often the Best Option for Contractors & 1099 Workers in 2026
If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or working as a 1099 contractor, finding affordable health insurance can be one of the biggest challenges of working independently. Many contractors automatically look at ACA Marketplace plans, only to discover high monthly premiums, limited networks, and deductibles that can make coverage difficult to actually use.
For many healthy individuals, private underwritten health insurance has become a smarter alternative.
Private health plans are designed to offer flexibility, lower monthly costs, and stronger provider access for people who generally maintain good health. In 2026, more contractors and self-employed workers are choosing private coverage over traditional Marketplace plans because it often delivers better overall value.
What Is Private Underwritten Health Insurance?
Unlike ACA Marketplace coverage, private underwritten plans evaluate basic health information during the application process. Because insurance companies can assess risk, they are often able to offer significantly lower premiums to healthy applicants.
These plans are especially popular among:
Contractors
Self-employed business owners
Freelancers
Gig workers
Real estate agents
Truck drivers
Consultants
Small business owners
For many 1099 workers, private coverage can provide access to nationwide PPO networks and lower monthly payments compared to unsubsidized ACA plans.
Why Contractors Often Prefer Private Health Insurance
Lower Monthly Premiums
One of the biggest reasons contractors choose private health insurance is affordability.
Many self-employed individuals earn too much to qualify for substantial ACA tax credits. Without subsidies, Marketplace plans can become extremely expensive — especially for families or individuals who rarely use medical services.
Private underwritten plans often provide:
Lower monthly premiums
Lower out-of-pocket costs
More customizable coverage options
For healthy applicants, the savings can sometimes be hundreds of dollars per month compared to Marketplace coverage.
Larger PPO Networks
Many ACA plans operate on narrow HMO or EPO networks, limiting which doctors and hospitals you can use.
Private health insurance frequently offers access to broader PPO networks, allowing contractors to:
Keep their current doctors
Access specialists more easily
Use coverage while traveling
Receive care across multiple states
This flexibility is especially valuable for contractors and remote workers who travel frequently for work.
Coverage Available Year-Round
ACA Marketplace enrollment is generally limited to Open Enrollment unless you experience a qualifying life event.
Private health insurance plans are often available year-round, giving contractors more flexibility if they:
Lose employer coverage
Become newly self-employed
Miss Open Enrollment
Need immediate coverage
This makes private plans attractive for individuals transitioning into self-employment.
Better Fit for Healthy Individuals
ACA plans are community-rated, meaning healthier individuals often pay higher premiums to offset overall risk in the Marketplace pool.
Private underwritten plans reward good health with lower pricing. For contractors who:
Rarely visit the doctor
Have minimal prescriptions
Maintain generally good health
Private coverage can provide stronger value at a lower monthly cost.
More Personalized Plan Options
Private plans often allow more flexibility in:
Deductible levels
Network choices
Supplemental benefits
Telehealth services
Dental and vision add-ons
This allows contractors to tailor coverage around their actual healthcare usage instead of paying for benefits they may never use.
When ACA Coverage May Still Make Sense
Although private coverage works well for many contractors, ACA plans can still be the better option for some individuals — particularly those with:
Significant pre-existing conditions
Ongoing specialist care
Expensive prescriptions
Eligibility for large tax subsidies
Because ACA plans guarantee acceptance regardless of health history, they remain an important option for many families.
Choosing the Right Coverage as a Contractor
The best health insurance plan depends on:
Your health history
Income level
Doctor preferences
Budget
Family size
How often you use medical care
That’s why comparing both private and ACA options is important before making a decision.
For many healthy 1099 workers and contractors, private underwritten health insurance offers:
Lower premiums
Better provider access
Flexible coverage
Nationwide PPO networks
More value for the money
Need Help Comparing Your Options?
A contractor's checklist before you switch
Estimate your net income for next year. If it is likely to be over the subsidy line, full-price Marketplace coverage is your real comparison. See the 2027 limits.
List your doctors and prescriptions. Private plans vary on both, so check before you apply.
Plan for the deductible. Contractors do not get paid sick leave. An accident or critical-illness plan can protect your income. How supplemental coverage works.
Know your state's rules. Short-term plan limits, Farm Bureau plans and carriers differ by state. Start with the self-employed guide for your state.
For the tax side, including the self-employed health insurance deduction, see my guide for 1099 workers.
At Posey Health Solutions, we help contractors, self-employed individuals, and 1099 workers compare private health insurance and Marketplace options to find coverage that fits their needs and budget.
If you’re looking for lower premiums, better networks, or more flexible coverage, we can help you explore plans available in your area.
Health Insurance for 1099 Workers in Florida
If you’re a 1099 worker in Florida, whether you’re a contractor, freelancer, or self-employed business owner—health insurance can feel confusing, expensive, and full of fine print. Unlike traditional employees, you don’t have an employer helping cover costs or guide your options.
The good news: you have more flexibility than you think.
What Is a 1099 Worker?
A 1099 worker is someone who earns income independently rather than as a W-2 employee. This includes:
Independent contractors
Freelancers
Real estate agents
Gig workers (Uber, DoorDash, etc.)
Self-employed business owners
Because you’re self-employed, you’re responsible for securing your own health coverage.
Health Insurance Options for 1099 Workers in Florida
1. Private Health Insurance (Underwritten Plans)
Private health insurance is often the best-kept secret for healthy 1099 workers.
Pros:
Lower monthly premiums compared to ACA plans
Nationwide PPO networks (more flexibility with doctors)
Customizable coverage options
Approval based on health (can mean better rates)
Cons:
Requires medical underwriting
Not ideal for individuals with major pre-existing conditions
👉 Best for: Healthy individuals who want better coverage at a lower cost.
2. ACA Marketplace Plans (Obamacare)
Plans through the Marketplace are guaranteed issue, meaning you cannot be denied coverage.
Pros:
Covers pre-existing conditions
Eligible for subsidies based on income
Essential health benefits included
Cons:
Higher premiums without subsidies
Limited networks (HMO/EPO)
Less flexibility in choosing providers
👉 Best for: Those who qualify for tax credits or have ongoing medical needs.
3. Short-Term Health Plans
Short-term plans can provide temporary coverage but are not a long-term solution.
Pros:
Low cost
Quick approval
Cons:
Limited coverage
Not ACA-compliant
Can deny coverage for pre-existing conditions
👉 Best for: Gaps in coverage, not full protection.
How to Choose the Right Plan
When choosing health insurance as a 1099 worker in Florida, consider:
Your health status – Are you generally healthy or managing conditions?
Your budget – Monthly premium vs. out-of-pocket costs
Your doctor preferences – Do you want nationwide access or local networks?
Tax situation – Are you eligible for ACA subsidies?
A lot of self-employed individuals assume ACA is their only option—but that’s not always the case.
Common Mistakes 1099 Workers Make
Automatically choosing the Marketplace without comparing private options
Overpaying for coverage they don’t use
Not understanding how underwriting works
Waiting too long and missing enrollment windows
Why Many Florida 1099 Workers Choose Private Coverage
For many healthy individuals, private plans offer:
Lower monthly costs
Better networks (PPO access)
More control over coverage
This is especially true for contractors and business owners who don’t qualify for significant ACA subsidies.
Final Thoughts
Being self-employed in Florida gives you freedom—but it also means taking control of your health coverage.
The key is understanding your options and choosing a plan that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.
Need Help Finding the Right Plan?
If you're a 1099 worker in Florida and want to explore your options, we specialize in helping self-employed individuals find affordable, flexible health coverage.
What is changing in Florida for 2027
Florida has the largest individual market in the country, with about 4.5 million people choosing a Marketplace plan for 2026. For 2027, Cigna is leaving the Florida Marketplace and Sunshine State Health Plan members are moving to Ambetter. Carriers proposed an average increase of about 16%, after a roughly 31.5% jump for 2026.
Two other Florida details matter for contractors. Florida has not expanded Medicaid, so a very lean year can leave you in the coverage gap. And Florida began allowing Farm Bureau health plans in 2025, which are medically underwritten membership plans rather than insurance. Florida also allows short-term plans for up to 36 months including renewals.
For the full picture, see private health plans for the self-employed in Florida and my Florida health insurance guide. If you work in more than one state, the general guide for 1099 workers covers the tax and income questions that apply everywhere.
Whether you're looking for lower premiums, better networks, or guidance on private vs. ACA plans, we can help you make the right decision.
👉 Reach out today for a quick, no-pressure consultation.
Private Health Insurance in Florida (2026 Guide)
If you’re shopping for health insurance in Florida in 2026, you’ve probably noticed one thing right away—prices are rising, options are confusing, and coverage isn’t always what you expect.
With major changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) this year, more Floridians are exploring private health insurance (also called underwritten plans) as a smarter alternative.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What Is Private Health Insurance?
Private health insurance (underwritten coverage) is health coverage issued outside of the ACA Marketplace, where approval and pricing are based on your health history.
Unlike ACA plans, which must accept everyone regardless of health, private plans:
Use medical underwriting
Offer customized pricing
Typically provide broader networks (PPO options)
Are designed for generally healthy individuals
👉 In simple terms: you qualify for better rates if you’re healthy.
What Changed in Florida for 2026?
2026 is a turning point for health insurance in Florida.
Here’s what’s happening:
Subsidies were reduced or eliminated for many people
Premiums increased 30%+ on average
Some individuals lost eligibility for financial assistance entirely
Marketplace enrollment dropped for the first time in years
In fact, some plans that cost under $100/month in 2025 are now $500–$1,000+ per month in 2026 for the same person.
That’s why many people are asking:
“Is there a better option outside the Marketplace?”
ACA (Marketplace) Plans vs Private Health Insurance
Let’s break it down clearly:
ACA / Marketplace Plans
Guaranteed approval (no medical questions)
Income-based subsidies (if eligible)
Standardized coverage tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum)
Higher premiums in 2026 due to subsidy changes
Limited networks (often HMO/EPO)
👉 Best for:
People with major pre-existing conditions
Those who qualify for strong subsidies
Private (Underwritten) Plans
Health-based approval
Lower monthly premiums (for healthy applicants)
PPO networks (more flexibility with doctors)
No reliance on government subsidies
Customizable coverage options
👉 Best for:
Self-employed individuals
Small business owners
Healthy families and individuals
People frustrated with rising ACA costs
Why Private Health Insurance Is Growing in Florida
Florida already leads the nation in Marketplace enrollment, with over 4.5 million people enrolled .
But in 2026, many are moving away from ACA plans because:
1. Cost Control
Without enhanced subsidies, ACA premiums have become unpredictable.
Private plans offer:
Stable pricing
Lower premiums for qualified applicants
2. Better Doctor Access
Many ACA plans restrict you to local networks.
Private plans often include:
Nationwide PPO networks
No referral requirements
3. Customization
ACA plans are “one-size-fits-all.”
Private plans allow:
Tailored deductibles
Flexible coverage levels
Add-ons like telehealth, wellness, or gap protection
4. Faster Enrollment
No strict enrollment window
Year-round approval (if you qualify)
Compare that to ACA, where you must enroll during a limited window or qualify for a life event.
The Catch (And Who Should NOT Choose Private Plans)
Private health insurance isn’t for everyone—and it’s important to be upfront about that.
You may NOT qualify if you have:
Major pre-existing conditions
Recent surgeries or hospitalizations
Certain chronic illnesses
In those cases, ACA plans are still the safer option.
Real Example (Florida 2026)
Let’s look at a simplified comparison:
Plan Type Monthly Cost Deductible Network
ACA Silver Plan $600–$1,000+ Moderate Limited
Private PPO Plan $300–$600 Flexible Nationwide
👉 For a healthy individual, private coverage can often cut costs in half.
Who Private Health Insurance Is Perfect For
Private coverage is a strong fit if you are:
Self-employed
A 1099 contractor
A small business owner
Between employer plans
Healthy and want lower monthly costs
Looking ahead to 2027 in Florida
Florida subsidies have been doing a lot of work. In 2026 the average Florida enrollee received about $740 a month in help. Above 400% of the poverty level, which for 2027 is $63,840 for one person and $132,000 for a family of four, that help disappears entirely. See how the subsidy cliff works.
At the same time, full prices keep climbing: premiums rose about 31.5% on average for 2026, and carriers proposed about 16% more for 2027. That combination is why so many healthy Floridians over the line are comparing private options.
My Florida health insurance guide covers carriers, Medicaid and Open Enrollment dates, and private health plans for the self-employed in Florida goes deeper for contractors and business owners.
Final Thoughts: Is Private Health Insurance Worth It in 2026?
In 2026, the gap between ACA and private health insurance is wider than ever.
ACA plans are still essential for those who need guaranteed coverage
But for healthy individuals, private plans often deliver better value, flexibility, and long-term savings
👉 The key is simple:
If you can qualify medically, private health insurance is often the smarter financial move in Florida right now.
Need Help Comparing Plans?
Choosing the right plan isn’t just about price—it’s about fit.
If you want help comparing:
Private PPO options
ACA plans
Or seeing what you personally qualify for
Reach out and I’ll walk you through it step-by-step.
Private Health Coverage vs. ACA Marketplace Plans: What You Need to Know
When it comes to choosing the right health insurance, most people find themselves deciding between two main options: private (underwritten) health coverage and ACA Marketplace plans. While both serve a purpose, they are built very differently—and depending on your situation, one may offer significantly more value than the other.
Let’s break it down in a simple, real-world way so you can make the best decision for yourself or your family.
What Is ACA (Marketplace) Coverage?
ACA Marketplace plans were designed to provide guaranteed coverage to everyone, regardless of health history. That means:
No medical questions
No denial for pre-existing conditions
Standardized coverage requirements
Sounds great on the surface—and for some people, it absolutely is.
However, there are trade-offs.
Downsides of ACA Plans
Higher monthly premiums (especially if you don’t qualify for subsidies)
Large deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums
Limited networks (HMO/EPO plans are common)
One-size-fits-all structure
For many individuals, especially those who are relatively healthy, ACA plans can feel like you're paying a premium for coverage you may never fully use.
What Is Private (Underwritten) Health Coverage?
Private health plans—also known as medically underwritten plans—are designed for individuals who are in reasonably good health.
Instead of accepting everyone at the same rate, these plans evaluate your health history upfront. Because of that, they can offer:
Lower monthly premiums
Better network flexibility (often PPO options)
Lower deductibles in many cases
More customizable coverage
Why Private Coverage Often Makes More Sense
If you qualify medically, private plans can be a smarter financial move.
1. Lower Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
Because private carriers take on less risk (they underwrite applicants), they can offer significantly lower premiums compared to ACA plans—sometimes by hundreds of dollars per month.
2. More Freedom with Doctors
Many private plans provide access to nationwide PPO networks, meaning you’re not locked into a small group of doctors or forced to get referrals.
3. Customization
Private plans often allow you to tailor coverage based on your needs—whether that’s prioritizing lower deductibles, better hospitalization coverage, or broader networks.
4. Designed for Healthy Individuals
If you don’t have major ongoing medical conditions, it often doesn’t make sense to pay inflated ACA pricing when you can qualify for a more efficient plan.
When ACA Coverage Might Be the Better Option
To be fair, ACA plans do play an important role.
They are typically the better choice if:
You have serious pre-existing conditions
You don’t qualify medically for private coverage
You receive subsidies that significantly reduce your premium
In these cases, ACA coverage provides stability and guaranteed access to care.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between ACA and private health coverage isn’t about which one is “better” overall—it’s about which one is better for you.
But for many individuals and families who are relatively healthy, private (underwritten) plans often provide:
Lower monthly costs
Better access to providers
More flexibility and control
If you’ve only ever looked at Marketplace options, it’s worth exploring what private coverage could offer—you may be leaving a better solution on the table.
Need Help Deciding?
Every situation is different, and the best plan depends on your health, budget, and goals. If you want a side-by-side comparison or help seeing what you qualify for, reach out and we can walk through your options together.
2027 changes that affect this decision
The subsidy cliff is back. Above 400% of the poverty level there is no tax credit: $63,840 for one person and $132,000 for a family of four in 2027. See the full limits.
No repayment cap. If your income ends up higher than you estimated, you repay the entire advance credit at tax time.
Carriers are leaving. Cigna, Molina and others are exiting several state Marketplaces for 2027, so check your state guide before assuming your plan will renew.
Open Enrollment dates. On HealthCare.gov it runs November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 15 for a January 1 start.
If you are self-employed, the self-employed guide for your state shows how these changes play out where you live.
Your health coverage should work for you—not the other way around.
Click here to be directed to our quote page to see what side of the market fits you, and or your family better!