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California Health Deadline Looms: Act by Dec. 31!
29 Dec
Summary
- Californians must enroll in health insurance by December 31 for January coverage.
- Expiring federal subsidies may increase premium costs for many residents.
- State funding is being used to provide subsidies for lower-income individuals.
As the year concludes, Covered California is urging uninsured residents to enroll in health insurance by the December 31 deadline to secure coverage for January. While the official open-enrollment period extends to January 31, acting before year-end is essential for immediate policy activation. This year's enrollment is particularly critical as enhanced federal premium tax credits, instrumental in boosting enrollment since 2021, are slated to expire at the close of 2025.
Despite the impending expiration of federal subsidies, Covered California continues to facilitate enrollment, with over 1.9 million Californians already signed up for 2026 coverage. The state has allocated $190 million to provide new tax credits for individuals earning up to 165 percent of the federal poverty level, aiming to maintain 2025 premium levels for many. More than 364,000 people have already benefited from state subsidies during this enrollment period.
