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KCAL Insurance Agency

Covered California Important Notice: Verify Your Identity & Subsidy Eligibility

by KCALKCAL Perspectives

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (HR‑1), signed into law in 2025, Covered California will adjust immigration status requirements for financial assistance eligibility beginning January 1, 2027. Some members will begin receiving official notices starting July 2026. Please review and update your identity information promptly. You may also click the button below to complete the Covered California Identity Information Update Form, (opens in new tab) and a licensed agent will assist you.

1. 2027 Financial Assistance Eligibility Standards

Effective January 1, 2027, aside from U.S. citizens, only the following three immigration categories will remain eligible for Covered California financial assistance:

1. Lawful Permanent Resident & Green Card Holder

2. Cuban and Haitian Entrants

3. COFA Migrants

Enrollees who do not meet the above status requirements may continue Covered California enrollment starting in 2027, but will no longer receive any financial assistance, including:

  1. Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC): Used to directly reduce monthly premium costs.

2. Cost‑Sharing Reductions (CSR): Used to lower out‑of‑pocket costs (such as copays and deductibles).

Those enrollees without the above subsidies will see premium expenses rise sharply in 2027. It is important to note that 2026 health plans and financial aid remain as is, unaffected by this policy change. Please continue timely premium payments to maintain uninterrupted coverage.

2. 2027 Renewal Preparation Guide

To ensure your legal rights and uninterrupted coverage, please follow the steps below to prepare in advance:

1. Update Immigration Status Immediately
If your immigration status has recently changed (such as receiving a green card or status adjustment), please contact Covered California or your licensed insurance agent immediately to re‑determine subsidy eligibility.

2. Ensure 2026 Coverage Remains Effective
Current plans and premiums are not affected by the new policy. Please pay premiums on time to avoid unexpected coverage interruptions.

3. Plan Ahead for 2027 Premium Payments
Premiums may rise significantly starting January 2027. If you have set up bank auto‑pay, it is recommended to adjust your payment method in advance or reserve sufficient funds to prevent failed deductions or unexpected overdrafts.

4. Pay Attention to Open Enrollment
Covered California will announce 2027 plan details in October 2026. If you are confirmed ineligible for subsidies, please make your selection by December 15, 2026:

– Compare various plans and continue Covered California enrollment for 2027 without subsidies;

– Cancel the 2027 Covered California plan and choose another commercial health insurance option that better suits your needs.

3. Take Immediate Action: Update Your Identity Information

To ensure a smooth 2027 renewal and protect your rights, we will assist you in updating your Covered California identity information. Please click the button below to complete the “Covered California Identity Information Update Form.” (opens in new tab) You may also contact KCAL Insurance professional team at(626)369-8812 for one‑on‑one policy guidance and renewal evaluation.

You may also bring the relevant documents to any KCAL Insurance branch office. We will provide on‑site verification and full assistance. If your subsidy eligibility is affected, we will compare available plans in advance and design the most cost‑effective solution for you.