There is an Open Enrollment Period each year beginning usually in October through the end of the year. The health plans will start January 1, if you enroll by December 15th. Outside of Open Enrollment, you need a qualifying life event for a Special Enrollment Period. A qualifying life event can be losing health insurance, such as Medi-Cal or group plan, having a baby, getting married, and moving into California. NOTE: Medi-Cal has Open Enrollment year round. You can apply for Medi-Cal anytime your income drops below the federal poverty levels making you ineligible for a private plan through Covered California