If you recently moved to Florida, here’s the short version: you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to get health insurance. That means you don’t have to wait until the next Open Enrollment window. You can sign up now – but only if you act fast. Missing the deadline can leave you without coverage and stuck waiting months.
Here’s how it works, what to watch for, and why this rule exists in the first place.
What is a Special Enrollment Period?
The ACA (Affordable Care Act) set up two main ways to get health insurance on the marketplace: Open Enrollment (once a year) and Special Enrollment (triggered by certain life events). Moving to a new state – like Florida – is one of those events.
So yes, moving is a valid reason to apply for coverage outside the usual window. But not every move qualifies. And there are specific conditions and deadlines for the special enrollment period for moving to Florida.
Why Moving Triggers Special Enrollment
The idea is simple: when you move, your access to insurance changes. Plans vary by ZIP code. Your old plan from another state won’t apply in Florida. So, the system allows a window to sign up for something new.
But here’s the catch – you must have had minimum essential coverage before the move (or qualify for an exemption). If you’ve been uninsured for months, moving won’t help. It only works if you had qualifying coverage before and you’re losing or leaving that plan due to the move.
Also, this applies to permanent moves only. A vacation, short-term job, or part-time relocation usually doesn’t count.
What Counts as a “Move” That Triggers SEP?
According to Healthcare.gov and resources like the Health Reform Beyond the Basics guide, here’s what qualifies:
- Moving from another state to Florida
- Moving within Florida to a new county where different plans are offered
- Moving from abroad (returning U.S. citizens or legal residents)
- Leaving a shelter or temporary housing
- Leaving incarceration
Also, you need to actually move and establish a new residence. Staying in a hotel for a couple of weeks doesn’t count. You’ll likely need to provide documentation showing your new address.
How Long Is the Special Enrollment Window?
The SEP window is short. You get 60 days from the day you moved to enroll in a new plan.
If you wait, the clock doesn’t stop. Day 61? You’re out of luck. You’ll have to wait until the next Open Enrollment (typically in the fall) unless another life event triggers eligibility.
Here’s what the 60-day window looks like:
- Day 1: The day you move into your new Florida home.
- Day 2–60: You can apply and choose a plan.
- After day 60: You’re no longer eligible unless something else (like losing employer coverage) triggers another SEP.
Also note: you can apply before you move, within 60 days before your move, but coverage doesn’t begin until you’ve actually relocated.
How Do You Prove You Qualify?
You’ll need to provide documents.
Common examples:
- Lease or mortgage documents showing your new Florida address
- Utility bill with your name and address
- Confirmation of loss of coverage from previous provider
- A driver’s license update may also help
And yes, documentation is required. People try to game the system. The government checks.
What Happens If You Don’t Apply Correctly?
A lot of people mess this up. They assume they’re automatically covered just because they moved. Or they try to sign up too late. Or they don’t submit documents in time.
What happens? Application denied. Or worse – coverage starts late, and you get hit with medical bills in the meantime.
That’s why talking to a licensed agent helps. They’ll walk through your situation and help you apply correctly. No charge to you. The insurer pays them.
If you’re confused, a Florida-based helpline like the one offered at DontGoUncovered.com can tell you exactly what’s needed and get the application filed.
Who Can Help?
You can visit Don’t Go Uncovered to talk to a licensed insurance agent. They’ll ask about your move, current coverage (if any), income, and more. They can help you avoid choosing the wrong plan – or missing the deadline altogether.
Their help is free. They know the rules and the Florida-specific plans. They’ll even tell you if you don’t qualify for a SEP right now.
Other Common SEP Triggers (In Case They Apply)
In addition to moving, here are a few other things that can open up a Special Enrollment Period:
- Losing employer-sponsored coverage
- Divorce or legal separation
- Having or adopting a child
- Aging off a parent’s plan at age 26
- Losing Medicaid eligibility
But again, each one comes with its own 60-day clock and documentation rules. You don’t get to wait around.
Final Takeaways
- Moving to Florida qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period – but only if you had coverage before.
- You get 60 days to enroll from the day you move.
- You’ll need to submit proof of your move and possibly proof of your previous coverage.
- Mistakes are common – if you wait too long, apply wrong, or skip documentation, you may lose your chance.
- The best thing you can do is talk to someone who does this every day. An agent or helpline will walk you through it.
What to Do Next
If you’ve moved to Florida and aren’t sure where to start, start here: DontGoUncovered.com. Agents are available Monday through Saturday to answer your questions and help you submit everything on time.
Health insurance isn’t optional. And the Special Enrollment Period doesn’t last forever. If you’re new to Florida, act now. Or get stuck waiting until fall.
