California runs its own state-based marketplace, Covered California, rather than routing residents through HealthCare.gov. The state exchange handles enrollment, plan comparison, and often adds its own state-funded subsidies on top of federal premium tax credits.
California has expanded Medicaid, known locally as Medi-Cal, so adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level generally qualify for coverage there instead of needing a marketplace plan. Medi-Cal eligibility in California has also broadened over time to cover additional populations regardless of immigration status in some cases.
Because Covered California runs its own enrollment calendar, the window can differ from the federal HealthCare.gov schedule, so residents should check Covered California's site directly for exact dates rather than assuming the standard federal deadline applies. The state also offers additional financial help to some middle-income households who wouldn't otherwise qualify for federal subsidies.