A special-enrollment period is underway now that allows you to enroll in a health plan until Aug. 31. People who have experienced certain life-changing events could be eligible. Find out if you qualify.

Health insurance through Covered California just got more affordable.

Half a million people are now seeing average monthly savings of $500 to $600.

The state of California is making new financial help available to almost a million Californians, many for the first time. Ninety percent of people who have signed up with Covered California get financial help, and you could be one of them. You could even qualify for low-cost or free health coverage through Medi-Cal. Even if you’ve checked before, check again to see if you’re eligible.

See If You're Eligible for Financial Help

Use our Shop and Compare Tool to see how much you can save.

Some families get a thousand dollars a month in savings, even those making up to $154,500 a year. Even an individual earning close to $75,000 may qualify for financial help.

For more information about the new state subsidies, please review the design documents, which have more details about the program.

How do I enroll?

Go to Shop and Compare and compare coverage options and costs. Begin by estimating your annual household income to see if you can get financial help. Next, choose a health plan that is the best fit for you and your family. Make your first payment and you are covered.

Once you start the application, you’ll either qualify for low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal, or depending on your estimated income, you’ll have the option to choose from specific health plans offered through Covered California, likely with financial help to pay your premium.

Read more about how the CARES Act's coronavirus stimulus payments and Pandemic Unemployment Compensation affect your household income.

What about COBRA?

Your company may offer you Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) coverage. This is an opportunity to continue your current health coverage (typically up to 18 months) at an increased personal cost, since you will most likely be paying the portion your employer used to pay, plus an administrative fee. 

If you have already enrolled in coverage through COBRA, you generally must either wait for open enrollment in the fall or for your COBRA benefits to expire before you can enroll through a special enrollment period with Covered California. However, due to the coronavirus epidemic, through Aug. 31, 2020, individuals impacted by COVID-19 may be eligible to enroll in health insurance through Covered California.

Can I compare COBRA and Covered California coverage?

To estimate the cost and benefits of Covered California coverage with that of COBRA, use our Shop and Compare tool to understand your options before making a decision.

I already have coverage with Covered California but I’m having trouble affording my coverage because of loss of income. Am I eligible for extra financial help?

Keep your account up-to-date with your current income. You may be eligible for free or low-cost care through Medi-Cal, or more financial help paying for your Covered California plan.

Is Medi-Cal an option?

Yes, if you are eligible, you may apply for Medi-Cal at any time. You do not have to wait until the open enrollment period or until COBRA coverage ends to enroll in Medi-Cal.

I am furloughed / on unpaid leave / on Paid Family Medical Leave. What are my coverage options?

Medi-Cal can be a temporary coverage option until your return to work. Apply through CoveredCA.com. Make sure to update your Covered California account as your circumstances change (example: return to work).