Moving to California? 11 Things to Know About Health Insurance
Welcome to California! Amid the general excitement of your move, it’s important not to overlook our state’s unique health insurance rules. While you’re unpacking, let’s quickly unpack how health coverage works here and what we can do to make your transition easier.
1. California Requires You to Have Health Insurance
The Golden State has a state health insurance mandate. That means everyone, including new residents, must have qualifying coverage or face a tax penalty at tax time.
2. Your Old Insurance Probably Won’t Work Here
Health insurance is state-specific. Plans from your previous state typically won’t be accepted by California doctors and hospitals — even if the insurer’s name is the same.
3. The Good News: Moving Is a Qualifying Life Event
Relocating to California is a qualifying life event that lets you enroll in a new health plan right away — even if it’s outside the annual open enrollment window.
4. The Catch: You Have a 60-Day Window to Act
Don’t wait around too long. You get 60 days from your move date during the special enrollment period (SEP) to choose and enroll in a new plan or risk going without coverage.
5. You’ll Use the Covered California Marketplace
California has its own official health insurance marketplace called Covered California. You can use this online exchange to shop, compare and enroll for health coverage.
6. You Might Qualify for Financial Help
Many newcomers are surprised to learn they may qualify for government-funded assistance to help pay for their health insurance. These subsidies are available through Covered California, making coverage much more affordable for individuals and families.
7. Plans Are Grouped Into Metal Tiers
Covered California’s metal tiers categorize the health plans by how you and the plan share costs. Choose from Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum plans. Bronze has the lowest monthly cost but higher deductibles, while Platinum offers the most comprehensive coverage at a higher premium rate.
8. HMO vs. PPO Networks Are a Big Decision
HMOs and PPOs are the main types of health insurance plans — designed to help balance cost, network access and provider flexibility. While HMO plans limit you to a set network, they tend to cost less overall. PPO plans cost more but provide broader flexibility to see any doctor. Double-check that your preferred doctors are covered before choosing a plan.
9. Medi-Cal Is an Option for Lower Incomes
Medi-Cal is California’s version of Medicaid, offering free or low-cost coverage to those who qualify. This is a great option for families with lower incomes.
10. Watch for Special Rules and Extra Benefits for Kids
Children are prioritized in the state’s health insurance system. Preventive care for kids, like checkups and vaccinations, is always free with no copay. When you apply as a family, your household size can help you qualify for more financial assistance.
Pediatric dental and vision coverage is mandatory for all kids under 19. While some plans include it, you may need to add these separately at enrollment — so double-check your choices.
11. You Don’t Have to Figure This out Alone
California’s health insurance landscape can be confusing. That’s why Health for California provides free, personalized help every step of the way.
Get Your Free Quote From Health for California Today
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