Did you know one in five Californians are eligible for free health insurance? Are you one of them? There’s an easy way to find. At Freeway Insurance, we have bilingual agents standing by to help you sign up for health insurance for next year during Covered California’s Open Enrollment from Nov. 1, 2024, to Jan. 31, 2025. This service is free to you. Call us at 866-951-0476 so we can help you today – for free!
Covered California General Information
What is Covered CA?
Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace where Californians can compare and purchase affordable health plans. It also helps residents determine if they qualify for financial assistance or Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program.
What is the Difference Between Covered California and Obamacare?
Obamacare is the federal law that mandates California health insurance coverage, and Covered CA is the state’s implementation of Obamacare. Covered California provides access to ACA-compliant health plans and financial assistance to help reduce costs.
Is Covered California the Same as Medi-Cal?
No, Medi-Cal is a separate program that provides free or low-cost healthcare for low-income residents. When you apply for health insurance, if you qualify for Medi-Cal, your application will automatically be rerouted.
Can I Get Covered California for free?
Yes, many Californians qualify for $0 premiums based on their income*. One in five residents can enroll in Covered CA at no cost per month—click here to see if you qualify or call us at 866-951-0476.
How Much is Covered California?
The cost of Covered CA varies based on your income, family size, and the plan you select. Many people qualify for reduced premiums, with some paying as low as $10 per month or less than $1 per day.
Do you Pay Back Covered California?
If you receive more financial assistance than you’re eligible for, you may have to repay part of it when you file your taxes. This is determined based on your final income for the year.
How Do You Qualify for Free Healthcare in California?
You can qualify for free healthcare through Medi-Cal if your income falls below a certain threshold. Covered CA also offers financial assistance for those whose incomes exceed Medi-Cal limits.
Do You Have to Apply to Covered California Every Year?
Yes, you need to renew or update your plan during the annual open enrollment period to ensure your coverage continues and your financial assistance remains accurate. You can also make changes during this time if necessary.
How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for Covered California?
Approval times can vary, but you typically receive confirmation of enrollment within a few weeks. Once approved, your coverage can begin as soon as next month.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having Health Insurance in 2024-25?
In California, there is a penalty for not having health insurance in 2024-2025. If you don’t have coverage, you may face a tax penalty when you file your state taxes. Here’s how it works:
- Penalty Amount: The penalty is based on either a flat dollar amount or a percentage of your income, whichever is higher. For 2024-2025, the penalty is typically $850 per adult and $425 per dependent under 18. A family of four could pay up to $2,550.
- Income-Based Penalty: Alternatively, the penalty can be calculated as 2.5% of your gross income that exceeds the state’s filing threshold, whichever is higher.
- Exemptions: You may be exempt from the penalty if you fall into certain categories, such as having a very low income or facing financial hardships.
What Happens if I Move Out of California?
If you move out of California, you’ll need to cancel your Covered CA plan and apply for coverage in your new state. You may qualify for a Special Enrollment period when you move.
Can you Cancel Covered California at Any Time?
Yes, you can cancel your Covered California plan at any time. However, re-enrolling may only be possible during open enrollment or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment period.
How will Covered California Affect my Tax Return?
The financial assistance you receive is based on your estimated income, and when you file your taxes, it’s reconciled with your actual income. If you received too much or too little assistance, your tax return will reflect the difference.
Can I Receive Financial Assistance to Help Pay for My Health Insurance?
Yes, one in five Californians qualify for financial assistance to lower their monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. See if you qualify here or call us at 866-951-0476.
How Do I Apply for Covered California?
You can apply online through the Covered CA website or by reaching out to a Freeway Insurance agent. We’ll help you determine if you qualify for free or low-cost health insurance. Call us at 866-951-0476. You won’t be charged for this service.
Open Enrollment for Covered California
When is the Next Covered California Open Enrollment Period?
Covered CA open enrollment period begins Nov. 1, 2024 and ends Jan. 31, 2025.
What Are the Important Dates for Health Enrollment in 2024-25?
For the 2024-25 period, important dates are the open enrollment period. You must enroll during this time to ensure your coverage starts at the beginning of the year.
Can I Make Changes to My Health Plan After Open Enrollment Ends?
Changes to your health plan can only be made after open enrollment if you qualify for a Special Enrollment period. Qualifying events include major life changes like getting married or losing other health coverage.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for During Open Enrollment?
To apply, you’ll need proof of identity, California residency, and income documentation, such as pay stubs or tax returns. This helps verify your eligibility for financial assistance or Medi-Cal.
How Do I Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period Outside of the Standard Dates?
You can qualify for a Special Enrollment period if you experience life changes such as moving, getting married, having a baby or losing other health coverage. You’ll typically have 60 days from the event to make changes.
What Happens if I Miss the Open Enrollment Period?
If you miss the open enrollment period, you won’t be able to get coverage until the next year unless you qualify for Special Enrollment. Without coverage, you may also face tax penalties.
Where Can I Get Help if I Have Questions About Choosing a Plan?
You can get help from Covered California’s customer service or from Freeway Insurance to learn about understanding your options in California. Call our bilingual agents at 866-951-0476 for free help finding out if you qualify for free health insurance or signing up for a plan.
Covered California Eligibility
How Can I Determine if I’m Eligible for Covered CA Coverage?
Almost everybody qualifies for health insurance with Covered CA if they do not receive their insurance from another source, such as an employer or through Medicare. Many Californians are eligible for free health insurance, which is based on income, household size, and other factors. You should call our bilingual agents for free help finding out if you qualify at 866-951-0476.
What Income Qualifies for Free Covered California or Medi-Cal?
Eligibility is generally for individuals and families with incomes between 138% and 600% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Income limits depend on your household size and location.
What Proof of Income is Required for Free Covered California Eligibility?
You’ll need to provide recent pay stubs, tax returns, or other documentation to verify your household income. This helps determine your eligibility for financial assistance.
What Counts as Income When it Comes to Covered California Income Eligibility?
Income includes wages, salaries, tips, unemployment benefits, self-employment income, and taxable Social Security payments. This information is used to determine eligibility for subsidies.
Does Covered California Use Gross or Net Income?
Covered CA uses your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) to determine your eligibility for financial assistance. MAGI includes taxable income and certain deductions.
What if I Overestimate My Income for Covered California?
If you overestimate your income, you may receive back part of your monthly premium. If you underestimate your income, you may have to pay back some of the financial assistance you received when you file your taxes. It’s important to provide an accurate estimate to avoid this.
Is There an Age Limit for Covered California?
There is no age limit for Covered California. However, younger children may be eligible for Medi-Cal or Children’s Health Insurance (CHIP), a plan that offers low- or no-cost health insurance to children, and seniors can get coverage through Medicare.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Apply for Covered California?
Undocumented immigrants cannot apply for Covered California, but some may qualify for Medi-Cal or other health services, such as emergency and pregnancy care.
Can I get Covered California if I Have a Job?
Yes, you can get Covered CA even if you have a job, as long as your employer doesn’t offer affordable, minimum value coverage. You may also be eligible for financial assistance based on your income.
Why Did I Get Denied Covered California?
You may have been denied for reasons such as having access to employer-based coverage or missing the open enrollment period. You can contact Covered CA to learn more about your eligibility or call our bilingual agents at 866-951-0476 for free help.
Benefits and Coverage Options for Covered California
What Benefits are Included in Covered California Plans?
Covered CA plans offer essential health benefits like doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, maternity care, mental health services, and preventive care. These benefits meet ACA requirements.
Does California Cover Dental and Vision Care?
Yes, dental coverage is available as an optional add-on for adults, and vision care is included for children. Adults can purchase separate vision coverage.
Are Preventive Services Covered Under Covered California?
Yes, preventive services such as annual checkups, vaccinations, and screenings are covered at no additional cost under Covered CA plans. This includes services for both adults and children.
Does Covered California Cover Mental Health Services?
Yes, mental health and substance use disorder services are included as part of the essential health benefits in every Covered CA plan. Coverage includes counseling, therapy, and inpatient services.
Are Prescription Medications Covered?
Yes, all Covered CA plans include prescription drug coverage. The specifics of coverage depend on your chosen plan and formulary.
What Types of Health Plans are Offered Through Covered California?
Health plans are categorized as Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans. These types of health coverages vary in the level of coverage and cost-sharing, allowing you to choose a plan that fits your needs.
Can I Keep My Doctor if I Enroll in Covered California?
You can keep your doctor if they are part of your plan’s network. Use the provider directory to check if your doctor participates in your selected Covered California plan.
Are There Family Plans Available Through Covered California?
Yes, you can enroll in family plans that provide coverage for you, your spouse, and dependents. Family plans allow you to cover everyone under one policy.
*Disclaimer: Eligibility for California residents centered on American Rescue Plan expanded Marketplace subsidies based on federal poverty level. Restrictions apply. Freeway Insurance Services America, LLC. Licensed as Accident and Health Broker (CA License #6002326). Other rates, service fees, restrictions and charges may apply.
