Covered California’s open enrollment period for health care coverage through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act officially began on Nov. 1, as it continues to connect more California families to health insurance options that can fit in their household budget and meet their health care needs.

This marks the 14th open-enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act, which since its inception has helped tens of millions of Americans access health insurance, including more than 1.7 million Californians currently enrolled for coverage through Covered California. Nationwide, more than 19 million were insured through a marketplace plan this year.

Open enrollment runs from Nov. 1, 2026, through Jan. 31, 2027. It’s the time when Californians can sign up for, renew or shop for a new health insurance plan. Throughout California, 12 health insurance companies will offer plan options for 2027, including one new insurer, giving Californians more choice and lower costs.

Despite federal changes, Covered California maintains a strong and stable marketplace and engages in active negotiations with health insurance companies to ensure consumers are receiving the best value possible. In fact, 725,000 Californians pay $100 or less a month for their plans, including 20% of all current Covered California enrollees who have plans with a $0 monthly premium.

“At a time when people are feeling the pressure of rising prices on everything from gas and rent to food, we’re working to make sure people have quality health insurance options they can afford,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “Since our first year in 2014, Covered California has connected more than 7 million Californians to coverage at a price that works for them. During this complicated year, we continue to negotiate with insurance companies to keep our costs lower than the national average to help families find or keep their coverage.”

Enrollment help for Covered California is always free, confidential, and available in multiple languages. Consumers can also learn more about their options at the newly redesigned CoveredCA.com, where they can easily check if they qualify for financial help and compare health plans in their area. To ensure coverage for all of 2027, consumers must select a health plan by Dec. 31. For assistance or more information, call Covered California directly at 800-300-1506.

This year, Gov. Newsom and the California Legislature increased the amount of state funds available for the Covered California State Subsidy Program, from $190 million in 2026 to $300 million in 2027. As a result, Californians with incomes up to 200% of the federal poverty level in 2027 ($31,920 for an individual or $66,000 for a family of four) will be eligible for financial help to lower the cost of their monthly premiums.

With existing federal tax credits and California’s expanded subsidy program, 55% of Covered California enrollees will see no increase in their monthly premium. This includes nearly 200,000 consumers who will have the option of two $0 Silver plans and more than 330,000 who will pay less each month due to increased investment in California’s state subsidy program.

“While the headlines around health costs are certainly scary, more than half a million Californians are paying $50 or less a month for their health insurance through Covered California, and many more qualify for financial help but are choosing to go uninsured,” said Altman. “Before making that tough decision to go without coverage, speak with one of our certified enrollers or visit CoveredCA.com to explore options in your area – because coverage may be more affordable than you think.”

While costs like premiums and deductibles can vary by plan and metal tier, all plans through Covered California, including minimum coverage and Bronze-tier plans, include 10 essential health benefits, and provide access to leading doctors, hospitals and specialists across the state.

“Having health insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family in case the unexpected happens,” said Covered California Chief Medical Officer Dr. Monica Soni. “Every plan through Covered California covers the essential health benefits you need to get and stay healthy, and financial help is available to help put that coverage within reach.”