Covered California

The Covered California program is California’s Health Insurance Marketplace. This is where people without health insurance and who do not qualify for Medi-Cal can shop for name-brand quality health plans. Financial assistance through premium tax credits is available for individuals and families who qualify.

You may be eligible if:

• You are a California Resident
• You are not offered employer sponsored insurance that is adequate and/or affordable
• You have satisfactory immigration status
  • This may include having a valid work permit & social security card
• Your household income is within the ranges below. 

Income Requirements for Covered CALIFORNIA – 2025

Documents that may be needed for a COVERED CALIFORNIA Application

• Proof of Identity (ID/DL, Birth Certificate, Social Security Card)
• Proof of Kern Residency (Utility Bill, ID/DL with current address)
• Proof of Satisfactory Immigration Status (LPR / DACA Card, Certificate of Naturalization, Passport)
• Proof of Income (Paystubs, Letter of Affidavit, Taxes, etc)
  • Income is needed for all working individuals and adults 18+. Most recent month is needed.

ONCE AN APPLICATION HAS BEEN SUBMITTED, YOU WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SELECT A HEALTH PLAN THAT BEST MEETS YOUR NEEDS.

when can I apply for COVERED CALIFORNIA?

Covered California has an enrollment period where individuals and families can apply. The Open Enrollment Period begins November 1st and ends January 31st. Outside this period window, you may apply if you are experiencing a qualifying life event; this is known as Special Enrollment Period.  This will give you the opportunity to apply for coverage as long as you complete it within 60 days. Some qualifying life events are:

• You got married or divorced
• You gained/lost a dependent
• Lost your health insurance
• Moved into the state of California

For more detailed information, connect with a Certified Enrollment Counselor.

what are the benefits I RECEIVE WITH A COVERED CALIFORNIA HEALTH PLAN?

All of the health plans are mandated under the Affordable Care Act to cover the 10 Essential Health Benefits (listed below):

• Ambulatory patient services (outpatient care you get without being admitted to a hospital)
• Emergency services
• Hospitalization (such as surgery)
• Maternity and newborn care (care before and after your baby is born)
• Mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment (this includes counseling and psychotherapy)
• Prescription drugs
• Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices (services and devices to help people with injuries, disabilities, or chronic conditions gain or recover mental and physical skills)
• Laboratory services
• Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management
• Pediatric services including dental and vision services.
  *Dental and vision coverage is not available for adults. However, these can be purchased for an additional cost once a medical health plan is selected.