OBAMA CARE
Covered California is the state’s official health insurance marketplace, designed to help individuals, families, and small businesses access quality coverage at affordable rates.
Income Guidelines
Income guidelines help determine whether you qualify for financial assistance when purchasing health insurance through Covered California. These guidelines are based on your household size and estimated annual income.
What Counts as Household Income
Household income generally includes:
- Wages and salaries
- Self-employment income
- Unemployment benefits
- Social Security income
- Retirement income
- Other taxable income
Your income is estimated for the coverage year, even if it changes throughout the year.
Financial Assistance Through Covered California
Many Californians qualify for financial help to lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Assistance may include:
- Premium tax credits
- Cost-sharing reductions (available on certain Silver plans)
Eligibility depends on income, household size, and access to other coverage.
Income Changes During the Year
If your income changes during the year, it’s important to update your information as soon as possible. Income changes can affect your eligibility for financial assistance and the amount of help you receive toward your monthly premium.
If your actual income at the end of the year is higher than your estimate, you may need to repay a portion of the financial assistance you received when you file your taxes. Keeping your income information up to date throughout the year can help reduce the chance of repayment.
Updating income changes promptly helps ensure your coverage and financial assistance stay accurate throughout the year.
Off-Exchange Plans and Income
Off-exchange health insurance plans are not based on income and do not include subsidies. These plans may still be a good option for individuals who:
- Do not qualify for financial assistance
- Prefer specific plan designs or networks
- Are self-employed or have fluctuating income
Getting Help with Income Estimates
Estimating income can be confusing, especially for self-employed individuals or households with variable earnings.
Licensed insurance agents can help review income guidelines, explain how subsidies work, and assist with plan selection at no additional cost.
Contact & Support
Can I speak with a licensed agent?
Yes. Licensed California insurance agents are available to answer questions and provide guidance at no additional cost.
Prefer to contact us directly?
Call 800-341-1165 or email health@californiainsurancecenter.com.
Contact form
By submitting this form, you authorize California Benefits Insurance Center to contact you regarding your request by phone, email, or text message. Consent is not a condition of enrollment.
We typically respond within one business day. If your request is urgent, please include your preferred contact method and best time to reach you.
California Benefits Insurance Center is an independent insurance agency. Submission of this form does not guarantee coverage or enrollment. Quotes and plan availability are subject to carrier underwriting, eligibility, and applicable enrollment periods.
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CA HEALTH EXCHANGE
Covered California serves as the state’s trusted health insurance marketplace, connecting individuals, families, and small businesses with reliable, low-cost coverage options.
INCOME GUIDELINES
Explore California’s Obamacare income guidelines to find out whether you’re eligible for premium assistance or other government savings.
ONLINE SERVICES
Discover how simple it is to get covered through the Covered California. Login, compare plans, apply for coverage, and more.