State guides answer the three intake questions brokers get before income: which exchange platform, whether Medicaid expansion changes the subsidy cliff, and which carriers filed in the state for 2026.
At a glance
- California uses State Based Marketplace for individual market enrollment.
- Medicaid expansion status: expanded.
- CMS lists 211 issuers on file for 2026.
- Sample rating area: Los Angeles (90012).
Marketplace snapshot
Figures below come from CMS Marketplace filings for plan year 2026. The sample ZIP is 90012 in Los Angeles. Use coverage preview for another rating area, then quote the household when you need APTC and CSR math.
| Field | CA · 2026 |
|---|---|
| Exchange platform | State Based Marketplace |
| Medicaid expansion | Expanded |
| Plans in Los Angeles (90012) | Not returned yet |
| Premium range (before APTC) | Not returned yet |
| Issuers on file | 211 |
Exchange platform
California runs on State Based Marketplace. Confirm SEP and OEP deadlines on the state site when the household is not on the federal HealthCare.gov window.
Medicaid expansion
This state expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Households near 138% FPL may land in Medicaid instead of Marketplace APTC.
Open enrollment
Federal Marketplace OEP runs November 1 through January 15 for plan year 2026. Coverage effective dates follow Healthcare.gov rules for enrollments completed by December 15 and January 15. State based exchanges may publish different deadlines. Verify on the state exchange before you quote a last day to enroll.
Carriers in this state
Issuer rows come from CMS filings. Browse all carriers in CA.
Issuer 46471
Assurant Health
1 state
Issuer 47579
Chinese Community Health Plan
1 state
Issuer 24766
American Medical Security Life Ins Co
1 state
Issuer 61956
Golden Rule Insurance Company
1 state
Issuer 37102
PacifiCare Life Assurance Company
1 state
Issuer 33843
Care1st Helth Plan
1 state
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