Instructions

Beginning January 1, 2020, all California residents must either:

• Have qualifying health insurance coverage
• Obtain an exemption from the requirement to have coverage
• Pay a penalty when they file their state tax return

To avoid a penalty, you will need qualifying health coverage for each month beginning on January 1, 2020 for:

• Yourself
• Your spouse or domestic partner
• Your dependents

Many people already have qualifying health insurance coverage through:

• Employer-sponsored plans
• Coverage purchased through Covered California or directly from insurers
• Medicare
• Most Medicaid plans

For information about other exemptions that may apply, see the exemption list.

Use this tool to estimate the penalty you may owe. Use Form 3853 to get an accurate penalty amount.