Covered California
The Basics
Is Covered CA an Insurance Company?
No. Covered California is where Californians can get brand-name health insurance under the Patient Protection and the Affordable Care Act and see if they qualify for financial subsidies from federal government to help them pay their monthly premiums.
When can I sign up for Covered California?
Open enrollment is November 1st – January 31st. Individuals with qualifying life events can enroll at any time of the year. Medi-Cal enrollment is also year-round. Medi-Cal and Covered CA use the same application. After you enter your information, you will find out whether you qualify for Medi-Cal or Covered California.

Coverage Levels
Most health insurance newly sold to individuals and small businesses must now be classified as one of four levels of coverage: Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. In addition to those four levels of coverage, a minimum coverage plan is available to those who are younger than 30 or can provide certification that they are without affordable coverage or are expecting hardship.
Essential Health Benefits
All health insurance plans offered in the individual and small-group markets must provide a comprehensive package of items and services, known as essential health benefits. These benefits fit into 10 categories and include services like prescription drug, mental care, and emergency services.
Vision Coverage
Covered California offers a pathway to quality vision care. Vision care benefits for children are included in all health plans purchased through the exchange. Vision care for adults is not offered in Covered California health plans, but Covered California works certain vision insurance companies to offer coverage directly to consumer.
Dental Coverage
All Covered California health Insurance plans offer embedded pediatric dental coverage. This means that dental insurance for children is available in the price of all health plans purchased in the exchange. In addition, Covered California now offers supplemental dental coverage for adults, through optional family dental plans.
Documents needed
- Identification
- Social Security Number
- Citizenship or US National ID
- Proof on Income