Medi-Cal is California’s low/no-cost healthcare access program. Individuals and families who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) may qualify for Medi-Cal, and millions of Californians use Medi-Cal in any given year.
If your Medi-Cal coverage has recently been cancelled because your income has increased, you may qualify for special enrollment in Covered California, the state’s health insurance exchange. Losing Medi-Cal coverage because of an increase in income is one of the “qualifying life events” that makes a person eligible for special enrollment. You must enroll within 60 days of losing Medi-Cal, however, referred to as the special enrollment period (SEP). During the SEP you cannot be denied coverage in Covered California or through a private plan.
Financial Assistance May Be Available Through Covered California
The benefit of enrolling in a plan through Covered California is that, depending on your income, you may qualify for cost-sharing subsidies to help pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses or tax breaks to cover the cost of premiums, or both. Those who earn between 138% and 400% of the FPL should qualify for some kind of financial assistance.
Covered California plans are offered in a tiered system that includes bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels. Bronze plans cover 60% of medical costs, silver plans cover 70%, gold plans cover 80% and platinum plans cover 90%. Platinum plans have the highest premium, while bronze plans have the lowest premium.
Call Benefit Packages to enroll in a Covered California plan during the special enrollment period. Our health exchange-certified insurance agents can help you understand your options and determine whether you qualify for financial assistance to help cover the cost of coverage.