How To Sign Up for Obamacare in California

 

Where to go in California to get health plans under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and how to get help with the application process.

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For 2024 health plans, California open enrollment runs from November 1, 2023 until January 31, 2024. This open enrollment period is two weeks longer than most other states, allowing you more time to get covered. However, if you want your coverage to start on January 1, you'll need to sign up by the end of the day on December 15.

Once open enrollment ends, you may still be able to purchase health insurance for this year if you qualify for a special enrollment period. For example, if you’ve recently lost your job or significant income, you might qualify for a 60-day special enrollment period that will allow you to sign up for a new health insurance plan. (See What Happens If I Miss the Enrollment Deadline?)

To get covered, you can go directly to the online health insurance marketplace for California. If you need personalized help, you can reach out to an enrollment assistant. Most enrollment helpers are working remotely during the COVID crisis.

Where's the California Health Care Exchange?

You can find the health insurance exchange for California at Covered California. This is where you can learn about the various health insurance options available to you under the Affordable Care Act. If you see a plan you like, you'll be guided through the enrollment process online. 

Getting Personalized Help with Enrollment

In California, if you need help understanding your options for coverage under Obamacare or signing up for a plan, you can get free assistance from a certified enrollment counselor or from a licensed health insurance agent or broker.

Enrollment counselors can explain your options, answer your questions, and help you apply for the plan you choose -- but they can't recommend a specific plan for you.

To find an enrollment counselor, go to Contact Us at Covered California. You can then search for a certified helper in your area.

Private insurance agents or brokers can also help you understand your health care coverage options under Obamacare. Unlike government-trained assistants, they are allowed to suggest the best plan for you.

To directly connect with a California insurance broker who can help you evaluate insurance plans and choose a plan that's appropriate for your situation, call 800-943-6832. (We receive advertising income from the licensed brokers who offer their services through this telephone number.)

Getting Help Online or by Phone

If you want to get answers online or over the phone, Covered California offers the following options:

Online chat. Click here to initiate an online chat in English with a support representative.

Telephone support. The toll-free number for Covered California is 1-800-300-1506. If you are hearing impaired, please call the TTY line: 888-889-4500.

Help for Small Businesses

If you run a business with 50 or fewer employees, you can get help from the California SHOP (Small Business Health Care Options Program).

Connect on Social Media

You can find Covered California on FacebookTwitter, or YouTube.


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Jurisdictional relevance: ST

There are versions of this article for each State.



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