Covered California open enrollment for 2027 coverage opens November 1, and this year the headlines are easy to misread. Premiums are rising on average, financial help is changing shape, and some carriers are changing where they sell. For many households, the right move is the same one it always is: look before you renew.
The Dates
Open enrollment runs from November 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. To have new coverage start January 1, you generally need to enroll or make changes by December 31. Enrollments completed in January generally take effect February 1. Current members have been able to review their options and switch plans since October 1.
What the 9.9% Means — and What It Doesn’t
Covered California announced a preliminary statewide weighted average rate increase of 9.9% for 2027. That figure is an average across every carrier, region, and plan. Actual changes vary widely — from about 8% in parts of the North Bay to nearly 15% in the Imperial, Inyo, and Mono county region — and final rates are subject to review by California’s Department of Managed Health Care.
Covered California also estimates that, once financial help is applied, about 60% of enrollees will see no increase in their monthly premium. Your own number depends on where you live, your household, your income, and the plan you choose.
Why Shopping Matters in Los Angeles County
Covered California publishes a second figure for each region: the average change members could see if they switched to the lowest-cost plan in their current metal tier. In both Los Angeles County regions, that average came out as a decrease rather than an increase. An average is not a quote, but it is a clear signal that comparing plans may be worth the time this year.
California Expanded Its Own Financial Help
The extra federal premium help that expired at the end of 2025 has not been renewed. California has partly stepped in. The state increased funding for its own subsidy program, and for 2027, households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level — about $31,920 for one person or $66,000 for a family of four — may qualify for state financial help in addition to federal tax credits. Many of the lowest-income households will also keep a choice of Silver plans with no monthly premium. That help is available only through Covered California, not for plans bought directly from a carrier.
Carrier Changes to Watch
Twelve carriers will offer plans across the state in 2027. CalOptima Health is joining the marketplace in Orange County, and Molina Healthcare is leaving the marketplace in Orange County and northeast Los Angeles County. Molina members in those areas can choose a new plan; otherwise they may be moved to the lowest-cost carrier in the same metal tier.
Don’t Rely on Automatic Renewal
If you don’t act, Covered California generally renews your coverage automatically in early November using the information already on file. If your consent for Covered California to verify your income has expired, that automatic renewal may come without your financial help. New for 2027, your home address must also be verified before an enrollment is final. If you receive a notice asking for documents, respond promptly. Federal changes have also affected financial-help eligibility for some lawfully present immigrants.
How to Shop
Before you choose a plan for 2027:
- Update your income estimate for next year
- Confirm your doctors and hospitals are in the plan’s network
- Check how your regular prescriptions are covered
- Compare the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum, not just the monthly premium
A Familiar Scenario
Maria is self-employed and lives in the San Fernando Valley. Her plan was set to renew automatically, and her renewal notice showed a higher premium. Comparing Silver plans in her region, she found one that kept her doctor in network at a lower monthly cost. A short comparison changed her whole year.
We’re Here To Help!
As a certified Covered California agent, we can compare 2027 plans with you, update your information, and help with any documents Covered California requests. Our help is available at no additional cost to you. Reach out before December 31 so any changes are in place for January 1. Call us at 818-253-1736 or use the contact form on our website.
This article is general information about Covered California open enrollment for 2027. Rates shown are preliminary statewide and regional averages; your premium, eligibility for financial help, and plan availability depend on your circumstances and are determined by Covered California. This is not tax advice.