Not Exactly, but Covered California was created by the same law as the federal exchange or “Obamacare”. The primary difference between the two programs is that Covered California is owned and operated by the state of California rather than by the federal government. Also it gets state funding in addition to Federal funding to help reduce the cost for health insurance.
No, all Californians who have legal residence in the US are eligible to apply for health coverage through Covered California.
Yes, for 2020 there is a penalty imposed by the state of California on all residents of California who do not have health insurance for 9 out of 12 months during the year. The penalty ranges from $695 per household member up to 2.5% of household income.
Yes , Covered California provides a monthly subsidy based on a households: age. income, household size, and zip code.
No, the premium assistance received through Covered California is a tax credit and does not count as income.
No, Covered California is a different program than Medi-cal. Covered California is a program that allows Claifornian to enroll into private health insurance, and provides monthly financial assistance to ensure the premium is affordable.
Normally you can only enroll into a health plan during the Open Enrollment Period (November - January). Outside of that time frame, you are able to enroll into a plan year round if you have a Special Enrollment Period as a result of a life change.
The cost can vary based on household size, income, age and location. In general, the less income you make the less monthly premium you have to pay.
Most doctors in California take one of the Covered California plans but they don't take all of them. This means it is best to check which Covered California plans your doctor accepts prior to enrolling.
Normally it is only possible to change during the Open Enrollment Period. But if you have a qualifying life change then you may be able to change your plan.
Yes you are able to cancel your Covered California at any time throughout the year, but if you need coverage you will not be able to get re-enrolled until the next years Open Enrollment Period (November - January).