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Adding Dependents to Covered California FAQs

Learn how to add family members to your Covered California plan, including children, spouses, and domestic partners.

Who Can Be a Dependent?

You can include these family members on your Covered California application:

  • Spouse or registered domestic partner
  • Children under age 26
  • Stepchildren and adopted children
  • Foster children
  • Grandchildren (in certain circumstances)

Coverage for Children

Children can remain on your plan until they turn 26, regardless of:

  • Whether they live with you
  • Their marital status
  • Whether they're in school
  • Whether they're employed
Note: Children with low income may qualify for Medi-Cal even if parents qualify for Covered California.

Spouse and Partner Coverage

Covered California covers:

  • Legal spouses: Married couples can apply together
  • Domestic partners: Registered domestic partners treated same as married couples

Each person's income counts toward household income for subsidy calculations.

Adding Dependents to Your Plan

You can add dependents:

  • During Open Enrollment: Add anyone to next year's coverage
  • After a qualifying event: Marriage, birth, adoption, or gaining a dependent

To add a dependent, update your application through your Covered California account or work with a certified agent.