United Ways of California is an active partner with Covered California. It’s the only place to get federal premium assistance to help you buy private insurance from a range of plans. That means you may qualify for a discount on private insurance or get free health insurance through the state’s Medi-Cal program. Either way, you’ll get great health coverage. Premiums are available for people up to 600% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Special Enrollment – People who experience a qualifying life event can enroll in a health plan through Covered California even outside of the open-enrollment period. Read more about special enrollment and qualifying life events here.
- Open Enrollment (new applicants) – October 15 – January 31 annually.
- Renewals – October 15 – November 15
- Medi-Cal enrollment is open all year!
STEPS FOR COVERAGE
SHOP AND COMPARE
Visit the Covered California Website and enter some information about yourself to get a quick estimate of what you would pay for health insurance. The lower your income, the more we can help!
APPLY
Like what you see? You’re ready to apply! You’ll need your income information, ID, proof of citizenship or lawful presence, Social Security number and ZIP code.
NEED HELP?
You can get free help on the phone or in your neighborhood. Find your local United Way or call 211. You can also call Covered California (800) 300-1506 or “Find Local Help” on the Covered California website.
REVIEW YOUR CHOICES
See and review your private insurance options and how much they will cost. Select the health and dental plans you want. You may find out you qualify for Medi-Cal.
PAY YOUR BILL
You may be able to make your first month’s payment online, or you can wait for the bill to come in the mail.
YOU’RE COVERED
Congratulations! You and your family can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing you have health insurance. Be sure to start using your coverage to get the care that you need.
FREE CLINIC DIRECTORY: People without health insurance often find themselves with limited options for affordable healthcare and free dental care, and their lives and health often depend on access to free medical clinics. Free Clinic Directory helps uninsured people to connect with affordable and free health clinics in their area. By clicking on a state, a person can find free and affordable clinic listings by county.
