The open enrollment period for health insurance has been extended again this year, but we understand some folks still have a lot of questions. From knowing where to enroll to what you need to enroll, Apicha CHC has you covered.
This blog was last updated March 4, 2021.
The open enrollment special extension period is until May 15
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York State has issued several extensions for open enrollment. The new extension period is until May 15. With this extension, New York joins the federal Marketplace and other state-based Marketplaces giving consumers even more time to enroll for 2021. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, New York's health insurance Marketplace, or directly through insurers.
The 5 W's of open enrollment
Open enrollment comes once a year and you may find yourself confused and full of questions. The media coverage of health care might make things even more confusing. This FAQ sheet is our way of letting you know the basic information YOU need to make sure you are covered for 2021.
What is open enrollment?
Open enrollment is the time of year you can enroll into health insurance. If you don’t sign up for insurance during this time you may not be able to sign up until next year, resulting in lack of coverage for the full year of 2021. You also may be subject to a tax penalty for not being covered.
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What are the extended open enrollment dates?
Open enrollment starts November 1st, 2020 nationwide. However, the enrollment deadline varies by state, and this year we've seen numerous extensions to the open enrollment period. In New York state the last day to enroll in health insurance is now May 15, 2021. However, don’t wait until the last minute and get started right away! Here are the dates you need to know with the extended period.
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March 15, 2021 |
Enroll by this date and coverage will begin April 1, 2021. |
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April 15, 2021 |
Enroll by this date and coverage will begin May 1, 2021. |
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May 15, 2021 |
Last day to enroll. Coverage will begin June 1, 2021. |
Where can I apply?
You can apply for health insurance through New York State of Health Marketplace. There are several ways you can apply for coverage.
- You can apply online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov
- You can apply by phone by calling 855-355-5777
- Or you can apply in person by making an appointment with one of our state-certified Navigators at Apicha CHC. A Navigator can assist you in the application process and help you pick a plan that best fits your needs.
Who is eligible to apply for insurance through the NY State of Health?
Only people who live in New York State can apply for health insurance through the New York State of Health Marketplace. You will need to provide information regarding yourself and your household, immigration status, income, and current health insurance.
Why is it important to have health insurance?
Health insurance protects you from the high costs of healthcare. Without health insurance, you risk expensive medical care due to unexpected medical emergencies. It is also a great way to stay healthy and continue to do all the awesome things New Yorkers get to do. Preventative care and early intervention are more likely when you have insurance. So don’t wait and get covered today!
COVID-19 & open enrollment information
The extended 2020 Special Enrollment Period coincides with the Open Enrollment Period and allows uninsured individuals to enroll in a qualified health plan for November or December 2020 and continue enrollment in the same plan for 2021 without a gap in coverage. The special enrollment period will help protect the health of New Yorkers during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Enrollment in other programs through the NY State of Health (Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan) is available year-round.
How Apicha CHC can help
If you need assistance enrolling for health insurance, Apicha CHC has staff dedicated to helping you. You can schedule an appointment with one of our health insurance Navigators, who will help you enroll and pick a plan that is right for you. Additionally, below is a list of the following organizations with language translations that can help you enroll.
