New York Essential Plan Changes: What New Yorkers Need to Know

Changes to New York's Essential Plan

• ⚠️ Starting July 1st, New York's Essential Plan (EP) is undergoing significant changes due to the expiration of temporary federal funding.
• 💡 The EP currently provides zero-premium coverage to 1.7 million low-income residents who don't have insurance through work or qualify for Medicaid.
• 📉 As many as 450,000 New Yorkers will lose EP coverage because the program's income limit is being lowered.

Impact on Consumers

• 📈 140,000 people already saw premium spikes after the Affordable Care Act's enhanced tax credits expired.
• 💸 Advocates warn that the upcoming changes will drive up costs for hundreds of thousands more, creating a difficult time for consumers with many moving parts.
• ❓ Those losing EP coverage will be forced into marketplace plans, which may have higher costs.

Actions for Affected New Yorkers

• 📌 Update your New York State of Health account with current income, household size, and contact information.
• ✉️ Be vigilant for notices about potential coverage changes and start shopping for ACA marketplace options early.
• 🤝 Seek help from consumer assistance programs like Community Health Advocates, which offer free expert guidance to navigate options and enroll in the right plan.

State Efforts and Remaining Coverage

• 📊 The state is working to mitigate the impact of federal funding cuts.
• ✅ Approximately 1.3 million New Yorkers will be able to remain on the Essential Plan.