As the year-end approaches, Covered California is experiencing record-high enrollment numbers for 2025 health coverage, with 1.8 million Californians already enrolled or renewing their plans.
Key Deadlines
- December 31, 2024: Deadline for coverage starting January 1, 2025
- January 31, 2025: Final deadline for open enrollment (coverage starts February 1)
About Covered California
Covered California is the state's health insurance marketplace established under the Affordable Care Act. The program serves individuals who cannot access affordable coverage through employers and are ineligible for Medicare or Medi-Cal.
2025 Premium Changes
Premiums across California will increase by an average of 7.9% in 2025 due to increased healthcare utilization, rising care costs, and ongoing healthcare labor shortages. However, enhanced financial assistance programs are available, including:
- Federal subsidies
- Reduced out-of-pocket costs
- Eliminated deductibles for qualifying plans
Enrollment Requirements
Applicants need to provide:
- Social Security number
- Federal tax information
- Employment and income details
- Immigration documents (for non-citizens)
Coverage Requirements and Penalties
California law mandates health insurance coverage, with minimum penalties of:
- $900 per uninsured adult per year
- $450 per uninsured child per year
How to Apply
Three convenient application methods are available:
- Online at CoveredCA.com
- Phone: 1-800-300-1506
- In-person with local insurance agents
Current plan holders will be automatically renewed but must report any changes in income, household size, or address.
Regional enrollment data shows strong participation, with approximately 80,000 residents covered in the Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo county region. Nearly half of new enrollees come from Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.