Health Insurance Assistance

Helping People Get, Keep, and Use Health Coverage

Get personalized assistance applying for health insurance on the New York State of Health Marketplace and one-on-one answers to questions about health insurance and access to care.

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Visit the Marketplace

Program Overview

NCPPC Navigators are certified professionals who help individuals and families enroll in the correct health insurance coverage by providing unbiased information and assistance with the enrollment process, at no cost to you. Our Navigators help the community, year-round, apply through the New York State of Health Marketplace to Medicaid, the Essential Plan, and Child Health Plus. Special enrollment periods may apply for Qualified Health Plans, but the open enrollment period typically begins in November.

Navigators also assist in locating both providers and pharmacies that work with insurance plans and offer education on topics such as co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance. Navigators make frequent referrals to other programs both within and outside NCPPC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can shop in the Marketplace?

You must live in New York, be a US citizen, US national, or lawfully present immigrant, and not be incarcerated.

When can I enroll?

Enrollment is open all year for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential Plan. You can enroll in a Qualified Health Plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period (typically November 1st to January 15th) or a Special Enrollment Period if eligible.

What information do I need to apply?

You’ll need birth dates, Social Security numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants), employer and income information, policy numbers for current health insurance, and information about any other health coverage.

How long does it take to apply?

Applying over the phone takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Can I get financial assistance?

Yes, the Marketplace helps determine if you qualify for subsidies to lower your premiums, and also checks if you qualify for Medicaid, the Essential Plan, or Child Health Plus.

What if I move from one county to another?

If your Medicaid is with the Marketplace, update your account with your new address.

Connect with an Insurance Assistor/Navigator

Understand and Use Health Insurance

NCPPC’s Certified Assistors/Navigators can help New Yorkers apply for health insurance, understand their coverage options, and enroll in a plan that is right for them. They can also help individuals and families renew their coverage.

Assistor/Navigator Training

All of our Assistors/Navigators must complete the comprehensive training course and pass a qualifying exam before being certified as an Assistor/Navigator.

Supports Parents and Caregivers

We help you feel more confident and connected in your parenting journey. Whether that’s through parenting classes, one-on-one chats, or just having a space to talk with other parents—we’re here to support you.

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What is a Special Enrollment Period?

A Special Enrollment Period is when someone has a special life event (called a “Qualifying Life Event”) that makes it possible for them to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan outside of the Open Enrollment Period.

What Qualifying Life Events might make someone eligible for a Special Enrollment Period?

Loss of health insurance (for reasons other than you did not pay your premium)

A permanent move into New York State or a move within the State that makes new health plans available to you

Marriage or domestic partnership

Divorce or legal separation

Pregnancy certified by a health care practitioner

Birth or adoption of a child, or placement of a child in foster care

Becoming eligible or ineligible for help paying for your Qualified Health Plan coverage

Becoming a citizen, national or lawfully present individual

Generally, you must report a Qualifying Life Event to NY State of Health within 60 days.
You may need to provide proof of the Qualifying Life Event to your new health plan.