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Let's Talk Health

Let's Talk Health campaign logo by Covered California, featuring two overlaid speech bubbles in bright green and teal to symbolize a dynamic two-way conversation. A bold, impactful typeface spells out the campaign name

Health insurance is complicated.
We’re here to help you understand who we are, the enrollment process and what to expect.

What is Covered California?

We are a free service that connects Californians with brand-name health, dental and vision insurance. It’s the only place where you can get financial help to make your health plan more affordable. Brought to you by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

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Get to know us.

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Is Covered California for me?

All kinds of people have plans through Covered California. Our enrollees may be self-employed or working somewhere that doesn’t offer health insurance. Even if you’re between jobs for only a little while, we’re here for you.

As of today, 1.8 million Californians have signed up for a health plan through Covered California. Anyone can apply for health insurance during open enrollment, which is Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, or any time of year if you’ve experienced certain life changes (like getting married or having a baby). There is no income limit for getting health insurance through us, and you won’t be turned away for having a pre-existing condition.

Starting in 2024, DACA recipients are now eligible for Covered California.

Before You Buy
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What kind of financial help is available?

There are two kinds of financial help: lower monthly premiums, and savings when you have a doctor’s visit or medical procedure, so you don’t pay the full cost (for things like deductibles, copays and out-of-pocket maximums).

Most of our enrollees qualify for the first kind of financial help, and even more qualify for the second kind. They receive tax credits that make their monthly premiums less expensive. For example, if your family of four makes less than $75,000 a year and you sign up for a health plan, you will save on your monthly premium and discounts when you use your health insurance.

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How is Covered California different from other kinds of insurance?

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Covered California

Covered California is the state’s official health insurance marketplace and the only place to shop for health insurance and get financial savings to help lower the cost of coverage and care. It’s a free service that was started in 2013 after the Affordable Care Act became law. Covered California offers different health plans from 12 brand-name health insurance companies. We can help you select a private insurance plan that meets your health needs and budget.

Medical

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. It offers low-cost or free health insurance to California residents with limited incomes. It’s only available to those whose incomes make them eligible. Plans through Medi-Cal have the same benefits and quality standards as those available through an employer or an insurance marketplace like Covered California. (Medicare, a separate program, provides health insurance to people over 65 or who have certain medical conditions.)

Insurance

Health Insurance Companies

Health insurance companies provide health insurance to their members. Members pay a monthly premium, and the insurance company pays for some or all of their members’ health care costs. Covered California works with private health insurance companies to sell their plans through our online marketplace. You can buy health plans directly from the company, but any financial help you would be eligible for is only available through Covered California.

People whose employers offer health insurance can apply for a plan through Covered California, but they won’t qualify for any financial help if the employer’s plan is considered affordable and meets minimum value standards.

Watch: Covered California Health Insurance, Explained

Understanding Health Insurance Terms

Learn about commonly used terms to help you select and use your health insurance plan.

Where to Get Answers to Your Questions About Covered California

Have questions about your health insurance plan? We can help.

Free Preventive Care

Preventive care, like annual checkups and vaccinations, is available at no added cost to you.

Policy Change

DACA Recipients Now Eligible

A recent rule change means DACA recipients can apply for health insurance through Covered California starting Nov. 1. They can also get financial help if they qualify.

Learn more

How do I apply?

You have a few options when it comes to applying for health insurance. Apply online, in person or by phone — whatever works for you.

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Call Us

Speak with a service center representative during our regular business hours.

(800) 816-4725
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Live Chat

Chat with a member of our support team.

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Find an Enroller

Licensed Insurance Agents and certified enrollers are ready to help.

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Knowing you’re protected gives you peace of mind.

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    Lower your risk of costly, unexpected medical costs.

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    Get free preventive care, like vaccines, screenings and some doctor visits.

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    Benefit from in-network health care.

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Helpful Resources

Find the latest resources from Covered California and our partners.

Covered California

When, Where and How to Enroll Brochure (PDF)
Covered California
Enrollment Guide (PDF)
Covered California
Immigration Status and Eligibility Fact Sheet (PDF)
Covered California

Resources From Our Partners

Health Access Resources
AJSOCAL (Advancing Justice Southern California)
Enrolling in and Using Your Health Insurance (PDF)
AJSOCAL (Advancing Justice Southern California)
Application and Enrollment Process (PDF)
AJSOCAL (Advancing Justice Southern California)
Documents to Prepare for Enrollment (PDF)
AJSOCAL (Advancing Justice Southern California)
Health Insurance Terms and Rights (PDF)
AJSOCAL (Advancing Justice Southern California)
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