Free Health Insurance
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What is Free Health Coverage?
Free health coverage is the ability to access medical care at no cost. This type of coverage is available to certain individuals who meet income guidelines. Typically, free health coverage is available through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid) or via subsidies through Covered California.
In most cases, those seeking free health coverage must fill out an application in order to enroll in health insurance at no cost. Your income level and family size are two of the most important factors in deciding whether or not you qualify. If your income level is too high, you may qualify for a low-cost health plan or a sliding-scale based health plan.
Also, if your income is too high for you to qualify, your children may still be able to access free healthcare through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which in California is provided through Medi-Cal.
At Freeway Insurance, we know that navigating health insurance can be complicated. Our bilingual and skilled healthcare agents are here to help you make the best choices for you and your family.
How Do I Get Free or Low-Cost Health Care?
You may qualify for free or low-cost care through Medi-Cal or the ACA health insurance marketplace, based on income and family size. In this state, marketplace enrollment and financial help are handled through Covered California. The marketplace provides subsidies for those who qualify to help pay for health insurance. When you apply through Covered California, your application is also screened for Medi-Cal and routed to your county if you appear eligible.
The ACA health care law provides states with additional federal funding to expand their Medicaid programs to cover adults under 65 who make up to 138% of the federal poverty level. California has adopted this expansion. Children (18 and under) are eligible up to that income level or higher through Medi-Cal.
How Do I Get Free Health Insurance for My Kids?
If you qualify for Medi-Cal, it will also provide free health care for your children. If your income level is too high for full-scope Medi-Cal but you still cannot afford private health insurance, your children may still be eligible for CHIP-funded coverage through Medi-Cal.
Can I Get Free Health Insurance Through Obamacare?
Yes, if you and your family qualify for Medi-Cal or receive enough financial assistance through Covered California to reduce your premium to $0. When you enroll via Covered California, your application is evaluated for both subsidies and Medi-Cal; if you meet income guidelines, it will be forwarded to your county Medi-Cal office.
Other alternatives to receiving free health coverage include:
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ACA subsidies through Covered California. The marketplace offers generous cost-assistance subsidies for those who make too much for Medi-Cal, but not enough to pay for health insurance on their own. In some cases, these subsidies may take your payment down to close to nothing.
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Local charities and public hospital emergency rooms. While emergency rooms must stabilize emergencies, routine care should be obtained through Medi-Cal or Covered California plans whenever possible.
How to Enroll in Medicaid
Since every state has its own guidelines for eligibility, you will need to check with your state’s Medicaid agency for qualification. In California, Medicaid is called Medi-Cal. Apply online through Covered California or contact your county social services office. Once you find your state, click on the link and it will take you to the appropriate page for Medicaid applications where you live. California residents do not use HealthCare.gov to enroll. Here are two ways to enroll in California:
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Start an application at Covered California; if you qualify, your information is routed to Medi-Cal automatically.
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Contact your county social services agency to apply for Medi-Cal directly.
Remember, even if you do not qualify, your children may still be eligible for free medical care through Medi-Cal/CHIP.
Steps to Enroll in Medicaid
Every state is different, so you’ll want to be sure and apply with your state. You must reside in a state to receive benefits there. In most states, you can apply online, in person, by email, regular mail or phone. As an example, here are the steps to apply for Medicaid in California (Medi-Cal):
- Apply online through Covered California, visit your county social services office, or call for assistance. You’ll be able to find your local California office by following this link. Follow this link to find offices in other states.
- You will need social security numbers for U.S. citizens and document status for immigrants; employer and income for all applicants, federal tax information and other forms of health insurance anyone receives.
Is There a Timeline I Have to Follow to Apply for Free Healthcare?
No. You can apply for Medi-Cal and children’s coverage through Medi-Cal/CHIP at any time during the year. Although the Medicaid program is overseen by the federal government, states administer their own plans. You can apply through your county Medi-Cal office or Covered California. If you are approved, your coverage will begin immediately.
Are There Special Groups Who Qualify for Medicaid?
Yes. Besides low-income families and individuals, Medicaid may extend to children and qualified pregnant women, as well as individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is for those over the age of 65, and people, including children, who are blind or who have disabilities who have limited income and few resources. Pregnancy and postpartum coverage periods may have enhanced benefits under Medi-Cal.
Find Free or Low-Cost Health Insurance Today
Freeway Insurance agents are bilingual and experienced in helping people find their way through the health insurance maze. Freeway has partnered with many health insurance carriers to help customers find affordable health plans at low or no cost. And, as always, Freeway’s services and your health care quotes are 100% free! Give us a call today at 800-777-5620 or visit us at one of our many convenient locations for free help applying through Covered California or Medi-Cal.