How to Enroll in Individual Health Insurance in California
How to Enroll in Individual Health Insurance in California
Covered California provides Californians with access to individual health insurance in California through the state’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and the California Health Exchange. Our team at Good and Associates Insurance Services can help you navigate your healthcare enrollment.
While many Californians receive their health insurance through an employer-sponsored plan, individual insurance options let people choose the healthcare options that fit them best. Californians receiving health coverage through private health insurance companies or employer-sponsored plans may be eligible for lower premiums or increased coverage by switching to Covered California.
Am I Eligible for an Individual Health Plan?
California offers health insurance eligibility to most current residents in the state, including non-U.S. citizens with worker or student visas.
Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health insurance coverage to low-income people, those with disabilities or who reside in skilled nursing facilities, and undocumented non-US citizens 18 or younger or who carry a pregnancy.
Medicare offers insurance for those over 65, with optional supplemental plans available through private insurers.
How to Enroll in an Individual Health Insurance Plan
The Open Enrollment period for individual health insurance in California starts November 1 and lasts until January 31. You can apply during this time or change your existing plan.
Special Enrollment begins when you experience a qualifying life event and lasts for 60 days only. Be sure to move quickly to secure your coverage. You can see the full list of qualifying life events on the Covered California website.
Current enrollees that experience life changes that affect overall eligibility status, tax credit eligibility, or cost-sharing reduction eligibility should also apply under Special Enrollment.
You can start your application in three ways:
- Visit Covered California’s website and click “Apply Now.”
- Call Covered California’s service center at 800-300-1506, or submit your information online to receive a call-back from a certified insurance enroller.
- Make an appointment with a certified enroller or licensed insurance agent, or visit your local enrollment center.
For information about locations or to schedule an appointment, visit the Covered California website and look to the top of the page and click “Support,” then click “Contact Us.”
Coverage and Costs
Covered California offers many types of health insurance grouped under four main categories, bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. The lowest-level plans cost the least but offer less coverage with higher deductibles and co-pays. The highest-level plans cost the most but cover more for those with significant healthcare needs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
Need Help?
If you need help navigating your insurance enrollment, we can help.
Learn more about individual health insurance in California with Good and Associates Insurance, your local licensed insurance agent and certified insurance enroller. Find answers to your questions and get a free quote for health insurance in California by calling (800) 429-9900 or (909) 613-0056, or contact us online.
