California residents who went without health insurance in 2022 may face substantially higher penalties when filing their state income taxes. According to new regulations from Covered California, taxpayers who cannot provide proof of health coverage when filing their 2021 tax returns will face penalties of $800 per adult and $400 per child under 18 annually.

A family of four with two adults and two children lacking coverage would face a minimum penalty of $2,400. These penalties represent a significant increase from previous years, making the decision to obtain coverage more financially consequential than ever.

Covered California reopened enrollment on November 1, prompting officials to remind residents that insurance premiums often cost less than the penalties for being uninsured. Selecting appropriate health coverage not only provides medical protection but can also reduce potential financial burdens.

The California Franchise Tax Board will enforce these penalty provisions. Residents can visit the board's official website to use a penalty calculator tool that estimates potential fines based on individual circumstances.

As tax season approaches, officials recommend that residents verify their health coverage status to avoid unnecessary financial penalties. Timely enrollment in health insurance serves dual purposes: protecting both physical health and family finances.