Covered California Plan Renewal for 2016

by Esmeralda Mercado

Shop for a New Plan or Keep Your Current Coverage

Shortly, consumers will receive renewal notices from Covered California advising them that their health plan will be renewing on January 1, 2016 and they have a window of time to make changes that they wouldn’t otherwise be able to make until next year. Members have from October 12, 2015 to December 15, 2015 to make changes to their Covered California health plan. During the renewal open enrollment period, members may switch health plans or add family members. If no changes are made, their insurance will automatically be renewed. For details, wait for the Covered California letter or contact Health for California at 707-571-7590 for assistance.

In 2016, some consumers may be non-renewed due to missing proof of lawful presence or if Covered California was unable to verify their identity.  Individuals who lose their plan may either provide the documentation and have a lapse in coverage, or submit a new application during the open enrollment period of November 1, 2015 through January 31, 2016. Other individuals may lose the financial assistance that they previously received. Their health plan may still be renewed but the premium will be at full price, without a subsidy. This will be true for consumers who did not provide to Covered California needed information. Examples would be missing consent to verify, or if the consumer has not yet filed their 2014 income tax return. It’s not too late to provide these to Covered California, but be aware that the premium may be unsubsidized until the information is received by Covered California.

In addition to the renewal notices from Covered California, insurance carriers will also send consumers a renewal notice. Their letter will provide consumers their estimated premium for 2016, as well as a comparison of the benefit changes. If any family members are enrolled with Medi-Cal, consumers will also receive a notice from Medi-Cal.

Not sure how Obamacare affects your health care plans in California? Learn how the ACA works in California, including benefits, costs and enrollment.

Covered California is the Golden State’s official health exchange marketplace where individuals, families and small businesses can find high-quality, low-cost California government health insurance.

Learn about Obamacare income guidelines in California using our income limits chart, and see if you’re eligible for government assistance.

Learn about the Covered California website. Find easy online enrollment. Set up your account, log in, buy insurance and more on the California health marketplace website.