Covered California is the state-based health insurance marketplace in California, USA, established under the provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
It serves as a platform for individuals, families and small businesses to compare and purchase health insurance plans that meet their needs as it provides a range of health insurance options, including private health plans from participating insurance companies.
The primary purpose of the scheme is to provide accessible and affordable health insurance coverage to residents of California who do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance or government-sponsored programs like Medicaid or Medicare.
It offers a selection of health insurance plans that comply with the ACA’s requirements, ensuring essential health benefits and consumer protections.
Who is eligible for Covered California?
Covered California provides health plans to California residents who do not have access to affordable coverage.
Based on the income guidelines and salary limitations established by Covered California, individuals who earn below 47,520 dollars per year or families of four with an annual income below 97,200 dollars are eligible for government assistance based on their income level.
If a family has a lower household net income, they may qualify for a higher amount of government assistance.
It’s worth noting that tax deductions can reduce an individual or family’s income, potentially affecting their eligibility.
The majority of immigrants are also eligible for Covered California, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), lawful temporary residents, individuals seeking refuge from persecution (refugees and asylees), other humanitarian immigrants with temporary protected status and non-immigrant status holders (such as those with worker visas or student visas).
How do you apply for a Covered California health plan?
To enrol in a health insurance plan through Covered California, individuals must complete an application during the open enrolment period, which typically occurs annually.
However, certain life events, such as getting married, having a baby or losing job-based coverage, may qualify you for a special enrolment period, allowing you to sign up for coverage outside of the regular open enrolment period.
