On Saturday, Nov. 1, Covered California kicked off its open-enrollment period for 2026 coverage amid uncertainty surrounding the enhanced premium tax credits that have delivered greater affordability and record enrollment across the nation.
This marks the 13th open-enrollment period under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which since its inception has helped tens of millions of Americans access health insurance, including a record nearly 2 million Californians heading into 2026. Today, more than 24 million Americans are insured through a marketplace plan.
Open enrollment, which runs through Jan. 31, 2026, is when Californians can sign up for, renew or shop for a new health insurance plan. This year’s campaign, “Connectors to Coverage,” emphasizes the broad network of experts, enrollers and other guidance Covered California offers to help consumers navigate the path to affordable, high-quality health insurance.
“Since 2014, Covered California has helped more than 6 million Californians connect to quality health insurance at an affordable price,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “Despite uncertainty in Washington, our mission remains the same. We are here to help Californians get comprehensive health insurance, including free preventive care, to keep themselves and their families healthy in 2026.”
Since 2021, the federal government has helped millions of Americans afford health insurance through enhanced premium tax credits that reduce the cost of monthly premiums. The federal government made premium tax credits for lower-income enrollees more generous and provided tax credits to middle income consumers for the first time, putting money directly back in the pockets of consumers.
Those enhanced tax credits are set to expire at the end of this year without Congressional action.
Without an extension of the enhanced premium tax credits, monthly premiums are projected to rise by 97 percent on average for more than 1.7 million Californians enrolled and receiving financial assistance through Covered California. This includes more than 160,000 middle-income consumers who currently receive the federal enhanced premium tax credits but would lose eligibility in 2026. Faced with the full premium cost of coverage without financial help, they would be at risk of dropping health insurance.
Despite market uncertainties surrounding federal tax subsidies, Covered California maintains a strong marketplace and engages in active negotiations with health insurance companies to ensure consumers are receiving the best value possible. Through Covered California, Californians have access to brand-name health plans offered by 11 health insurance companies. Every plan provides access to leading doctors, hospitals and specialists across California and includes essential health benefits — from preventive care and maternity care to mental health services and emergency coverage.
