Do You Need Health Insurance?

New York’s Medicaid program provides comprehensive health coverage to more than 7 million lower-income New Yorkers. Medicaid pays for a wide range of services, depending on your age, financial circumstances, family situation, or living arrangements. These services are provided through a large network of health care providers that you can access directly using your Medicaid card or through your managed care plan if you are enrolled in managed care. Some services may have small co-payments, which can be waived if you cannot afford them.

How Do I Apply for Medicaid?

You can apply for Medicaid in any one of the following ways:

  • Write, phone, or go to your local department of social services.
  • In New York City, contact the Human Resources Administration by calling (718) 557-1399.
  • Pregnant individuals and children can apply at many clinics, hospitals, and provider offices. Call your local department of social services to find out where you can apply.
  • If you are in a facility operated by the New York State Office of Mental Health, contact the patient resource office.

Contact the NYS Medicaid Helpline

Toll Free: (800) 541-2831

Helpline Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00AM – 8:00 PM, Sat. 9:00AM – 1:00PM

Important Medicaid Renewal Changes

Do you or a family member currently have health insurance through NYS Medicaid, Child Health Plus, or the Essential Plan? You may need to take action to renew your health insurance or the insurance of your family members. Annual renewals for Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan have restarted in New York.  This means you may need to take action to renew your health insurance or the insurance of your family members.  You can renew your insurance over the phone by calling the NY State of Health Customer Service Center at 1-855-355-5777 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220).  The Customer Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM and on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Click here for more information.

Local Departments of Social Services

Your Local Department of Social Services (LDSS) may be able to assist you in obtaining your health insurance coverage and/or provide you with information about other programs and benefits, such as food benefits or housing assistance for which you may be qualified. Find the contact information for your LDSS:

Child Health Plus.

Children

Children under the age of 19 may be eligible for Child Health Plus.