Covered California 2024/25 Open Enrollment Period: Nov. 1 – Jan. 31

Open enrollment is the period during which people can purchase health insurance for the upcoming year. For the average person, this is the only time you can apply for health insurance. While there are some exceptions — such as experiencing a Qualifying Life Event or applying for health insurance through a company that does not use enrollment periods — in most cases, if you do not apply during this time, you will be unable to get the health insurance you need.

It is vital that you are aware of when you can apply for health insurance. It is the law to have it, and if you don’t apply by the deadline, you may face almost a year of living without it. Let Health for California help you plan for the next open enrollment period so you can be prepared for this essential time.

When Is the Open Enrollment Period for Covered California?

Open Enrollment for Covered California begins on November 1, 2024, and continues until January 31, 2025.

What If I Want to Apply and It’s Not Open Enrollment?

In many cases, if you do not apply during open enrollment, you will simply be denied insurance coverage until the next open enrollment period. The only other way to buy an insurance plan outside of open enrollment is to qualify for special enrollment through a Qualifying Life Event. If you fall under any of the following criteria, you will be able to apply for coverage outside of the November-January period, also known as the Special Enrollment Period (SEP):

• You lost your job.
• You moved to a new state.
• You got married or divorced.
• You became a widow or widower.
• You aged off your parent’s plan.
• You had a new baby.

Note that special enrollment does not apply if you voluntarily canceled your coverage or lost your health insurance due to failure to pay premiums.

What Are Your Options During Open Enrollment?

Depending on your current situation, you have the following options.

• Buy a plan through Covered California: You may want to buy a plan through the marketplace if you qualify for a tax credit to help offset your premiums. Qualifying usually depends on your income and household size. Your total household income must be between 128% and 400% of the federal poverty level, or FPL.
• Renew or change your current plan: During the open enrollment period, you can renew your existing plan. You won’t have to do anything if you want to keep what you have. But if your current plan is changing — for instance, your PCP is leaving the network, or your drugs aren’t in the list of covered medications — then you may want to switch to a plan that best suits your current needs. If you need to change policies, the open enrollment period is the best time.
• Enroll in Medi-Cal: If your income is below 128% of the Federal Poverty Level, you qualify for Medi-Cal, which is Medicaid for Californians.

Which Health Insurance Options Don’t Use Open Enrollment?

Most health insurers in California use some sort of open enrollment program. But there are a few exceptions that will allow you to apply regardless of the time of year. It’s important to note that these insurance programs have many requirements of their own, and the majority of people do not meet them. Look carefully at the eligibility for these programs and make sure you can apply before forgoing the regular open enrollment period.

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal doesn’t limit enrollment to the open enrollment period. If you’re eligible for Medi-Cal, you’re allowed to enroll anytime. Medi-Cal was designed to help individuals who are low-income, disabled, pregnant or otherwise in a challenging financial position. You may qualify if you:

• Are 65 or older
• Are under 21, especially if you are in foster care or below the poverty level
• Are pregnant
• Have a disability (blind, deaf, use mobility aids, etc.)
• Are a refugee
• Are in a care home or skilled nursing facility
• Are a caretaker of an eligible party

CHIP

The Children’s Health Insurance Program doesn’t limit enrollment to a specific time, either. It was designed for individuals and families who may not be eligible for Medicaid, but also not financially able to afford private insurance. CHIP is a federal insurance program, but eligibility varies from state to state. To qualify in California, applicants must be:

• Under 19 years old
• A California resident
• A U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
• Uninsured

Find the Right Coverage for Your Family Today

Whether you’re an individual just turning 26 or you’re looking to change your insurance after years of service, understanding enrollment and when you qualify to apply is crucial in keeping you safe and protected. Find insurance that covers everything you need and know when your chosen carrier will accept you with Health for California.

Our range of insurance plans covers Californians throughout the state at every level, offering affordable solutions for nearly every budget. Explore our plans today or connect with us to see how you can start benefiting now.