You May Be Eligible for Health Coverage Through Special Enrollment or Medi-Cal

Even if open enrollment for private health coverage through Covered California has ended Medi-Cal enrollment is year-round. Additionally, individuals who experience a qualifying life event may be eligible to enroll in private coverage through Covered California by applying for special enrollment.

A Guide to Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Triggers and Timing

The Marketplace open enrollment period is the regular time each year when people can newly enroll in a qualified health plan or change to a different plan through the Marketplace. But certain events that occur during the year can trigger a special enrollment period (SEP), when a person may be able to newly enroll in a Marketplace plan or change to a different plan.

This SEP Reference Chart [2]is a tool for those who are helping people enroll in health coverage through a special enrollment period. It focuses on the circumstances that trigger a SEP in the Marketplace, who can trigger and use a SEP, and the effective date of coverage once a health plan is selected.

Click here [2]for a reference chart regarding enrolling in health coverage through a special enrollment period.

Penalties for the Uninsured

Consumers who are filing their taxes this year may be paying a penalty for not having health insurance. And the penalty for going without insurance in 2017 unless you qualify for an exemption [3] is:  $695 per adult and $347.50 per child under age 18 in a household or 2.5 percent of their household income, whichever is greater.

We are Here to Help

To see if you qualify for the special enrollment,  for Medi-Cal, or for questions about health insurance coverage in general, call our office at 760-924-1770.  We’re happy to help!