Covered California open enrollment for 2027 coverage runs November 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. Enroll by December 31 for coverage that starts January 1. Enroll in January and coverage starts February 1. Current enrollees can renew or switch plans starting October 1, 2026.
The dates that matter
- October 1, 2026: current enrollees can renew or switch plans.
- November 1, 2026: open enrollment begins for 2027 coverage.
- December 31, 2026: last day to enroll for coverage that starts January 1, 2027.
- January 31, 2027: open enrollment ends. Enrolling in January starts coverage February 1.
These dates come from Covered California. People on Medicare follow Medicare's own enrollment schedule instead.
How the plan tiers work
Covered California sells plans in metal tiers. Bronze has the lowest premium and the highest costs when you use care. Platinum has the highest premium and the lowest costs when you use care. Silver and Gold sit between. A minimum coverage plan with high deductibles and free preventive care is open to people under 30 and certain others.
Silver plans can come with extra cost-sharing reductions if your income qualifies, which lowers deductibles and copays. That is why a lower-income household can come out ahead on Silver even when Bronze has the cheaper premium.
Do you qualify for help paying for a plan?
Many households qualify for a premium subsidy. Eligibility depends on household size and income together, not a flat income cutoff, so it is worth a real check instead of a guess. The amount for 2027 depends on current federal and state rules, so rely on the plan previews on Covered California for the actual prices.
If your income is low, you may qualify for Medi-Cal instead, and you can apply any time of year.
If you miss the window
Outside open enrollment, you can generally enroll only if you have a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage or moving. You usually have 60 days from the event. Without one, the next window is the following fall.
How Luis helps with ACA plans
Luis Alvarenga runs your household size and estimated income against current subsidy tables before you commit to a plan, at no cost to you. He helps clients across 18 states compare ACA marketplace plans during open enrollment or a special enrollment period. See the Health and ACA page for details.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last day to enroll for January 1 coverage?
December 31, 2026. Enroll by then for coverage that starts January 1, 2027.
Can I enroll in Covered California after January 31?
Generally only with a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage or moving. You usually have 60 days from the event.
Do I have to renew my plan?
Current enrollees can renew or switch starting October 1. Prices and plan details change each year, so compare your options before you let it roll over.
Is Covered California the only way to get a subsidy?
Premium subsidies for marketplace plans come through the exchange, so check your eligibility there before you buy a plan elsewhere.