The Top Health Insurance Mistakes California Families Make (And How to Avoid Them)

New to the Golden State? If you’ve recently moved to California and are ready to choose health insurance for your family for the first time, you may feel overwhelmed. Covered California is the state’s official health insurance marketplace, with unique programs and rules.

With so many special policies and deadlines, it’s easy to make a mistake. This quick guide breaks down three of the most common missteps families make when applying for health coverage in California for the first time — plus how you can avoid them for better, more affordable options.

Mistake 1: Focusing Only on the Monthly Premium

It’s tempting to pick the plan with the lowest monthly price tag. However, those savings can disappear quickly if the plan has a high deductible or steep costs for doctor visits and medications.

Solution: Compare Plans Side-by-Side

Always compare different health insurance plans side-by-side to explore their potential benefits to your family’s unique health needs. Health for California lets you view premium rates, metallic tiers, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums from multiple insurance carriers, comparing their true total potential cost.

Mistake 2: Assuming You Don’t Qualify for Financial Help

Many families moving to California from out of state think they make too much money to qualify for subsidies — discounts that reduce health insurance premium costs.

Solution: Check Your Family’s Eligibility

California’s income limits for Covered California subsidies are higher than you might think. The only way to know if you can get help paying for coverage is to check your eligibility based on the state’s income limits.

Mistake 3: Missing Critical Enrollment Deadlines

As in most states, applying for health insurance through Covered California is not available year-round. Missing the open enrollment deadline could leave your family uninsured or facing a tax penalty.

Solution: Mark Your Calendar Each Year

It’s crucial to know when you can apply for health insurance in California. You can also apply right away if you have a qualifying life event, such as permanently moving to the state.

Avoid Common Health Insurance Mistakes With Health for California

Not sure where to start? Health for California is a free online platform that makes it simple to search for Covered CA health insurance. We can help you compare plans, calculate government subsidies and even apply for coverage — without the stress that you’ll make a costly mistake.

Get your free, instant quote now to find the right plan for your family.