What is Covered California and who is it for?

Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, residents of California can get brand name health insurance. Find out if you qualify for a discount on private health insurance or simply purchase health insurance from California’s Medi-Cal program.
Covered California is the place where Californians can get brand-name health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It’s the only place to get federal premium assistance to help you buy private insurance from companies like the ones listed on the right. That means you may qualify for a discount on private insurance, or get health insurance through the state’s Medi-Cal program. Either way, you’ll get great health coverage.
All Californians can sign up during open enrollment which begins November 1st and continues through January 31st. Many may be eligible to sign up at any time during the year due to a life-changing event such as getting married, having a child or moving. Medi-Cal enrollment is year-round, as well.
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FAQ’s about Covered California
Is Covered California an insurance company?
No. Covered California is where Californians can get brand-name health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and see if they qualify for financial subsidies from the federal government to help them pay their monthly premiums.
When is Open Enrollment?
- Open Enrollment for Californians begins November 1 through January 31. Life-changing events such as moving, getting married, or having a child allows you to sign up at any time. Medi-Cal enrollment is allowed all year.
What determines how much I will pay?
- Estimated income for the year you are shopping for
- Your ZIP code
- The size of your household
- Your age