As part of New York’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the open enrollment period for uninsured New Yorkers will be extended through March 31.

New Yorkers can apply for coverage through the NY State of Health, New York’s official health plan marketplace, or directly through insurers.

Extending the open enrollment period to March 31 helps to align New York with the federal public health emergency which was recently extended to April 20. The extension allows individuals eligible for Qualified Health Plan insurance additional time to enroll for coverage in 2021 and means that enrollment remains open for all NY State of Health programs, which is especially important during the ongoing public health emergency. Coverage start dates will vary:

¯ Enroll by February 15: Coverage starts March 1

¯ Enroll March 15: Coverage starts April 1

¯ Enroll by March 31: Coverage starts May 1

Individuals who are eligible for other NY State of Health programs — Medicaid, Essential Plan and Child Health Plus — can enroll year-round. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 855-355-5777 and by connecting with a free enrollment assister.