Covered California™* is the California health insurance marketplace where individuals and small businesses can shop for health coverage — online, in person, or by phone. Here they can explore and compare California health plans to find what’s best based on their household income and size.

Individuals can also learn if they qualify for a low cost or free health package and receive federal financial assistance. These programs are available based on household income level. In addition, they can find out if they qualify for public health assistance, like the state’s Medi-Cal program. When you complete an application, your application will be automatically reviewed for Medi-Cal eligibility.

Covered CA is the only place where Californians can apply for federal financial assistance to help reduce their healthcare costs.

At Freeway Insurance, we understand that finding affordable healthcare can be confusing. Our bilingual agents are ready to help you find the right healthcare for you and your family.

*“COVERED CALIFORNIA,” “CALIFORNIA HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE”, AND THE COVERED CALIFORNIA LOGO ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OR SERVICE MARKS OF COVERED CALIFORNIA, IN THE UNITED STATES.

This coverage in California is required to provide “essential health services.” This includes:

As discussed above, health plans through California’s marketplace, known as Obamacare, are available for many different groups of Californians based on household income level. Other special groups that are eligible to receive some form of health insurance include the following.

Healthcare for Pregnant Women in California

Healthcare for pregnant women is vital for their wellbeing and the development and health of their child. California offers different types of no-cost and low-cost care for pre- and post-natal women. In some cases, you may be eligible for both Covered CA and Medi-Cal during pregnancy and immediate post-partum, depending on your gross income. Should you fail to meet the Medi-Cal qualifications, you may still be eligible for the Medi-Cal Access Program.

If you have other children who are in need health coverage while you are pregnant, they may be eligible for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), if your income exceeds Medi-Cal limits.

Healthcare for Students in California

Students who meet eligibility guidelines may purchase a “minimum coverage plan” from their college or university that satisfies the California health mandate to have coverage. Students who do not file taxes, are covered on their parents’ plan or are not a legal resident of the U.S. are exempt.

California Veterans Healthcare

Veterans who do not qualify for health coverage through Veterans Affairs (VA) may be able to receive health coverage through Covered California or Medi-Cal, depending on their income and eligibility. VA healthcare meets all the requirements for California’s health plan mandate.

Individuals enrolled in Veterans Affairs coverage who desire to cancel their existing coverage to get a Covered California plan should first take a close look at the cost trade-offs. Many VA plans may possibly have lower deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses.

Healthcare for Immigrants in California

Immigrants who are legally present in the U.S. and California and who meet eligibility requirements may purchase health policies through the California health insurance marketplace. Immigrants who qualify may be able to purchase a minimum coverage plan that satisfies California’s health plan mandate. Undocumented immigrants may not use this health plan to purchase health coverage.

If you need help figuring out your healthcare options in California, give Freeway Insurance a call. Our experienced healthcare agents can help you find the best coverage for you.

Anybody can sign up for the Affordable Care Act known as Covered California during the open enrollment period. After the open enrollment period closes, some people who are eligible may be able to sign up during a special enrollment period.

The special enrollment period is for individuals who undergo what’s defined as a “qualifying event” and have to enroll outside of open enrollment. Medi-Cal enrollments for those with income below the federal poverty level are available throughout the year.

Having this information and paperwork handy when you enroll will help speed the process up:

There are a range of plans, so you can choose the one that best meets your financial situation and health needs.

The health plan category you choose determines how you and your plan share the costs of care.

There are 5 categories, identified as “metal levels” of coverage. Plans in each category pay different amounts of the total costs of an average person’s care. The actual percentage you’ll pay in total or per service received is related to the services you access during the year.

Yes. Californians must have health coverage that meets the guidelines in order to be in compliance with California law. If you choose to not find a health policy and you file a tax return, you could be penalized. Remember, Freeway can help you find low-cost and even free health insurance so you won’t face a penalty.