Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced this week that New York's health insurance Open Enrollment Period will be further extended to May 15, 2021, aligning with states across the country. 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.
"As we continue to navigate the huge challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and work toward rebuilding for a post-pandemic world, ensuring New Yorkers have access to affordable healthcare is more important than ever," Governor Cuomo said. "This commonsense step to extend open enrollment aligns with the federal government's actions and will help New Yorkers keep themselves and their families safe. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to explore the different plans NY State of Health has to offer and get insured today."
Coverage start dates will vary:
- Enroll March 15: Coverage starts April 1
- Enroll by April 15: Coverage starts May 1
- Enroll by May 15: Coverage starts June 1
Most marketplace enrollees qualify for financial assistance to lower the cost of their coverage. This extension allows individuals eligible for Qualified Health Plan insurance additional time to enroll for coverage in 2021. Enrollment remains open for all NY State of Health programs, which is especially important during the ongoing public health emergency.
Individuals who are eligible for other NY State of Health programs—Medicaid, Essential Plan and Child Health Plus—can enroll year-round. As always, consumers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 1-855-355-5777, or by connecting with a free enrollment assistor.
NY State of Health Executive Director Donna Frescatore said, "Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, New York is extending its Open Enrollment Period, giving uninsured New Yorkers more time to find the quality, affordable health coverage they need. Having health coverage is critical as New Yorkers continue to battle the pandemic and vaccination efforts continue. Enroll today."
On January 21, Governor Cuomo announced that open enrollment would be extended to March 31, 2021.
Additional information on NY State of Health insurance options during the Coronavirus emergency can be found here.
Department of Financial Services information and resources during the Coronavirus emergency can be found here.
How Apicha CHC can help you
If you have more questions, or you would like someone to walk through the application process with you, our Apicha CHC New York state-certified health insurance navigators want to help you apply for health insurance. You can reach them by calling 1.866.APICHA9.
You can also find more information on our website about our health insurance open enrollment resources or request an appointment to go over your application. Simply fill out the form and choose health insurance from the drop-down menu.
