Dates and Deadlines

Open enrollment happens during the fall. For 2021 coverage, the open-enrollment period is Nov. 1, 2020, through Jan. 31, 2021. 

Outside open enrollment, people who experience qualifying life events can apply during special enrollment. The most common change is loss of health insurance, usually due to a change in your job. Other changes include getting married, having a baby and moving to a new area. For most qualifying life events, you have 60 days from the date on which the qualifying life event happens to enroll in a Covered California health insurance plan or change your existing plan.

If you’ve recently experienced a qualifying life event, you can enroll at any time of the year. Medi-Cal enrollment is also year-round. Medi-Cal and Covered California use the same application. After you enter your information, you will find out whether you qualify for Medi-Cal or Covered California.