When is open enrollment in California for 2027?
In California, you sign up for 2027 coverage at Covered California, the state’s own Marketplace, not HealthCare.gov.
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Nov. 1, 2026 | 2027 open enrollment starts |
| Dec. 31, 2026 | Last day to pick a plan that starts Jan. 1, 2027 |
| Jan. 31, 2027 | Open enrollment ends |
Plans picked in January start Feb. 1, 2027. Coverage Decider checked these dates against Covered California and CMS on Oct. 15, 2026. 2027 open enrollment dates lists every state’s deadlines.
Who qualifies for Medicaid in California?
California expanded Medicaid. Adults 19 to 64 qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level: $22,025 a year for one person or $45,540 for a family of four, using the 2026 guidelines.
| Group | Income limit, share of the poverty line (KFF, January 2026) |
|---|---|
| Adults 19 to 64 | 138% |
| Children, through Medicaid or CHIP | 266% |
| Pregnancy | 322% |
- After a birth: California’s Medicaid covers 12 months of postpartum care.
- Every state’s limits: Medicaid income limits by state.
- In dollars for your household size: the 2027 federal poverty level chart.
Does California have Medicaid work requirements in 2027?
Yes. Starting Jan. 1, 2027, adults 19 to 64 covered through California’s Medicaid expansion must show 80 hours a month of work, school, job training or volunteering, or show they’re exempt, under the 2025 federal budget law (P.L. 119-21).
Medicaid work requirements in 2027 covers who’s exempt and how reporting works.
Does California help pay for coverage beyond the federal tax credit?
Yes. California Premium Subsidy adds state help on top of the federal tax credit for incomes from 100% to 200% of the poverty line in 2027. The benchmark silver plan costs $0 up to 150% of the poverty line, then a small share of income up to 200%, according to Covered California’s final 2027 program design. You get it by enrolling through Covered California.
Is there a penalty for going without health insurance in California?
Yes. California charges a state tax penalty for going without coverage. For tax year 2025 it was the greater of $950 per adult and $475 per child, or 2.5% of household income above the filing threshold, capped at the state average bronze premium, according to the California Franchise Tax Board.
What will 2027 plans cost in California?
Compare 2027 plans and prices for California at Covered California. Above 400% of the poverty line there’s no federal tax credit in 2027: the 2027 subsidy cliff shows where it ends for your household size.
Where can you get free help enrolling in California?
Covered California, like every ACA Marketplace, funds free Navigators who help California residents apply. Find one through Covered California.