{"id":4915,"date":"2025-10-09T13:47:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-09T13:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/?p=4915"},"modified":"2025-10-18T23:42:28","modified_gmt":"2025-10-18T23:42:28","slug":"how-to-get-low-cost-or-free-health-insurance-in-california","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/how-to-get-low-cost-or-free-health-insurance-in-california\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Low-Cost or Free Health Insurance in California"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\">The rising costs of health insurance in California are making it hard for residents to afford their insurance premiums. If you need help paying for health insurance, there are many options available to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\">get<\/span> <\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW179591781 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/insurance-solutions-california\/health-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW179591781 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">low-cost<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\"> or free<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\"> health insurance<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\"> in California<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW179591781 BCX8\">, depending on your family size and income.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW179591781 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Navigating California&#8217;s Health Insurance Landscape&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Known as <strong>Covered California \u2014 the state\u2019s official Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace \u2014<\/strong> it\u2019s how people who do not have an employer\u2019s insurance plan or private coverage can find the healthcare required under California law.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Californians who are not covered under an employer\u2019s plan for the 2025 year will need to navigate through the Covered California marketplace by a certain date in order to avoid a tax penalty. Typically, these certain dates to sign up fall during <a href=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/things-to-know-about-open-enrollment-in-california\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">California\u2019s Health Insurance Open Enrollment<\/a> which begins on Nov. 1, 2025, and ends Jan. 31, 2026.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It can be confusing, but there is help available for free with Cost-U-Less Insurance. Our professional and bilingual agents will walk you through signing up \u2013 at no cost to you \u2014 for plans through Covered California or Medi-Cal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Factors Influencing Health Insurance Costs in California&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like with all kinds of insurance coverage, your health insurance costs in California will be based on very specific information and factors unique to you and your situation. If you are looking for Covered California health insurance, some of the items under consideration will include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Your age<\/strong>: It is less expensive for younger people to access health care than it is for older people.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: California has a high cost of living, so your premiums may be higher, as well. It\u2019s all due to the cost of health care and related expenses.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Tobacco Usage<\/strong>: Those who use tobacco can be charged up to 50% more than those who do not. Unlike pre-existing conditions, insurers can and do charge more for those who use tobacco.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Individual vs. Family Plans<\/strong>: It makes sense you will be charged more as you add family members to your plan.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Plan Category<\/strong>: As with all ACA insurance coverage, the plans are divided into 5 tiers, including bronze, silver, gold, platinum and catastrophic.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right plan is important. Bronze plans typically have lower premiums and higher out-of-pocket costs, which makes sense if you are young and healthy. Platinum plans have higher premiums but less out-of-pocket costs, which works if you will be visiting the doctor often for a chronic condition. You don\u2019t have to pick a plan on your own. Cost-U-Less agents can help you decide which level works best for you and your family by asking the right questions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Affordable Health Insurance Options for Californians&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s important to have health insurance in California for several reasons. First, having regular healthcare with the same medical providers means continuing care with people who are familiar with you and your baseline health. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/importance-of-health-insurance-in-ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Comprehensive health insurance<\/a> is important for children and adults alike, as it can prevent disease and illness. Finally, healthcare of some kind is required in California. You could face a penalty on your taxes if you do not have it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Covered California: Low Cost Health Insurance Marketplace&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Covered California is the state\u2019s version of the ACA, or Obamacare. Many states have their own health insurance marketplaces like Covered California. Launched in 2010, these marketplaces offer residents the ability to find more affordable healthcare even with pre-existing conditions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like the government\u2019s version, applicants choose from 5 levels of coverage. Those who qualify can receive a stipend to help cover the cost.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Medi-Cal: Coverage Options for Low-Income Residents&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you fill out an application for health coverage through Covered California, if you qualify for Medi-Cal your information will be submitted automatically. Medi-Cal is the state\u2019s version of Medicaid, which offers low-cost or free health insurance in California to certain individuals who qualify based on income and other factors.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people qualify for this type of free or low-cost health insurance, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/breaking-down-medi-cal-for-undocumented-immigrants-benefits-and-eligibility-requirements\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">undocumented immigrants<\/a>, who can receive outpatient and emergency care, preventive and wellness services, pediatric, maternity and newborn care and prescription drugs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Californians lost their Medi-Cal insurance in 2023 after the pandemic public health emergency ended. However, if <a href=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/post-covid-medicaid-health-coverage-in-ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">you lost your Medi-Cal during this time<\/a>, you can apply to get it back.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A young boy of African decent, sits up on an exam table as a female Pediatrician preforms a check-up on him.  The boy is dressed casually and smiling as the doctor listens to his heart.\" class=\"wp-image-7526\" style=\"width:625px;height:417px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-390x260.jpg 390w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-270x180.jpg 270w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-540x360.jpg 540w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-280x187.jpg 280w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-240x160.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-560x373.jpg 560w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2024\/09\/cost-u-less-how-to-get-free-or-low-cost-health-insurance-in-california-1440x960.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Can I Get Free Health Insurance in California?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Low-cost or free health insurance is available for those who qualify. The decision is based on a person or family\u2019s income (and assets in some states). In California, those who need health coverage options can find them through Covered California or Medi-Cal, if they qualify. If you make too much for Medi-Cal, you may be eligible to receive a monetary stipend that helps pay the premium of your plan through the health insurance marketplace.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, your application for Medi-Cal programs can be submitted at any time and will automatically be submitted for you when you apply for insurance through Covered California if you qualify. You can only sign up for a plan through Covered California\u2019s marketplace during health insurance open enrollment, which runs from Nov. 1, 2025, to Jan. 31, 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Assessing Eligibility for Financial Assistance Programs&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you apply for your 2026 health benefits through Covered California, you\u2019ll need to provide supporting documents to assess your qualifications for either Medi-Cal or a subsidy on the marketplace. These documents may include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Proof of income&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Proof of citizenship&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Social Security number&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Tax filing status&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bank records&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Information about household members&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"829\" height=\"660\" src=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7942\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025.png 829w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-300x239.png 300w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-768x611.png 768w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-327x260.png 327w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-226x180.png 226w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-653x520.png 653w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-452x360.png 452w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-239x190.png 239w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-201x160.png 201w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-560x446.png 560w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-402x320.png 402w, https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/10\/Program-Eligibility-by-Federal-Poverty-Level-for-2025-603x480.png 603w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 829px) 100vw, 829px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><i>*Source: coveredcalifornia.com<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maximizing Your Health Benefits&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you have health insurance in California, whether that is through your employer, Covered California, Medi-Cal or some other source, there are some things you can do to take advantage of your health plan both financially and medically. Here are some tips:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Understand your plan<\/strong>: Have a clear understanding of what your plan covers and what you are responsible for and how it works.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Find an in-network primary care physician (PCP) you like<\/strong>: Having someone you know and like in your corner can pay off big if you need to use your health benefits for some emergency or a developing chronic condition. Using the same PCP means your records are accessible.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Use your preventive care options<\/strong>: On most plans, you receive free preventive care, such as screenings for&nbsp; breast cancer, diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. Catching any issues early can have a huge difference on the outcome.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Plan strategically<\/strong>: For example, if you need a big surgical procedure and it\u2019s not an emergency, you may want to schedule it after your deductible is met for lower out-of-pocket costs.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Always double check your claims<\/strong>: You should receive a document called an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) after each visit to your medical care provider. This document shows what your insurance company paid and how much you owe. Always carefully check this document and if there are any discrepancies, start calling your insurance company and the doctor\u2019s office. You may save yourself some money.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Using a professional to help you sign up for your health insurance in California will help make sure you are getting exactly what you need and that you understand your coverage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Utilizing All Available Resources and Support Services to Navigate Health Insurance in California&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With the advent of Obamacare and the continuation of the already existing Medi-Cal programs, most Californians who need to find insurance will be able to do so in time for the 2025 year. But it can be confusing trying to decide what you need and what you qualify for in the maze of the healthcare marketplace.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of resources to help people find the plan that works for them. If you live in California and need health insurance, reach out for a free walk through of what you can get with one of our helpful and bilingual agents.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get a Free Health Insurance Quote from Cost-U-Less&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Did we mention you can receive free help signing up for a California health insurance plan through Covered California and Medi-Cal? We are here to help you fill out your application, decide which plan works best for you and sign up so you don\u2019t miss California\u2019s Open Enrollment. Give us a call today at <a href=\"tel:866-951-0476\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">866-951-0476<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are There Any No-Cost Insurance Plans Available to Californians?&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, there are no-cost health insurance plans in California. If you qualify for free healthcare based on your individual factors, you will receive free healthcare through Medi-Cal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Can I Get Health Insurance If I&#8217;m Unemployed or Between Jobs?&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Regardless of your situation, if you need health insurance you should apply to Covered California during Open Enrollment, which begins Nov. 1, 2025, and ends Jan. 31, 2026. You can get healthcare based on your income and employment status, even if you cannot afford it right now.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are Short-Term Plans Available?&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Covered California offers short-term coverage if you lose your health insurance due to job loss or most other reasons. With marketplace stipends, you can get financial help to pay for your coverage. There is no long-term commitment \u2013 you can stop your plan at any time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The rising costs of health insurance in California are making it hard for residents to afford their insurance premiums. If you need help paying for health insurance, there are many options available to get low-cost or free health insurance in California, depending on your family size and income.&nbsp; Navigating California&#8217;s Health Insurance Landscape&nbsp; Known as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6685,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[702],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4915"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4915"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4915\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7956,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4915\/revisions\/7956"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6685"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4915"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4915"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.costulessdirect.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4915"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}