As the new year begins, many New Yorkers are looking for affordable health insurance options that meet their needs. With so many plans and providers to choose from, it can be overwhelming to navigate the complex world of health insurance. In this article, we’ll break down the best health insurance companies in New York, the costs associated with health insurance, and the different plan tiers available.
Best Health Insurance Companies in New York
When it comes to health insurance in New York, there are several top providers to consider. Here are a few of the best health insurance companies in the state:
- Anthem: Anthem is one of the largest health insurance companies in the country, and it offers a range of plans in New York. With a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from HealthCare.gov, Anthem is a popular choice among New Yorkers. Its plans offer comprehensive coverage, including preventive care, hospital stays, and prescription medication.
- Fidelis Care: Fidelis Care is a non-profit health insurance company that offers affordable plans to individuals and families. With a range of plans available, including Medicaid and Essential Plan options, Fidelis Care is a great choice for those who are looking for budget-friendly health insurance.
- Independent Health: Independent Health is a regional health insurance company that offers plans exclusively in western New York. With a perfect 5-star rating from HealthCare.gov, Independent Health is a top choice among those who live in the Buffalo area.
- MetroPlus Health: MetroPlus Health is a non-profit health insurance company that offers plans specifically designed for New York City residents. With a range of plans available, including Medicaid and Essential Plan options, MetroPlus Health is a great choice for those who live in the five boroughs.
Health Insurance Costs in New York
The cost of health insurance in New York can vary depending on a range of factors, including your age, income, and health status. Here are some general estimates of what you can expect to pay for health insurance in New York:
- Average cost of health insurance: The average cost of health insurance in New York is around $1,038 per month.
- Discounts: If you meet certain income requirements, you may be eligible for discounted rates on your health insurance premiums. These discounts can range from 50% to 90% off the full premium price.
- Plan costs: The cost of a health insurance plan can vary depending on the level of coverage you choose. Here are some general estimates of what you can expect to pay for different plan tiers:
- Bronze plans: These plans have the lowest premiums, but they also offer the least amount of coverage. On average, a Bronze plan costs around $757 per month.
- Silver plans: These plans offer a balance of premium costs and coverage. On average, a Silver plan costs around $1,038 per month.
- Gold plans: These plans offer higher levels of coverage, but they also come with higher premiums. On average, a Gold plan costs around $1,272 per month.
- Platinum plans: These plans offer the highest levels of coverage, but they also come with the highest premiums. On average, a Platinum plan costs around $1,590 per month.
Plan Tiers
When choosing a health insurance plan, it’s essential to consider the level of coverage you need. Here are the different plan tiers available in New York:
- Bronze plans: These plans have the lowest premiums, but they also offer the least amount of coverage. They are best suited for those who are healthy and don’t expect to need a lot of medical care.
- Silver plans: These plans offer a balance of premium costs and coverage. They are best suited for those who need moderate levels of coverage and are willing to pay a bit more for it.
Eligibility Limits for Medicaid in New York
In New York, the eligibility limits for Medicaid vary depending on your income, family size, and other factors. Here are the current eligibility limits for Medicaid in New York:
- Individuals: To be eligible for Medicaid in New York, your income must be at or below 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a single person, this translates to an annual income of $17,236 or less.
- Couples: For couples, the income limit is 138% of the FPL, which is $23,760 or less per year.
- Families: For families with children, the income limit is 213% of the FPL, which is:
- $26,628 or less per year for a family of three
- $32,784 or less per year for a family of four
- $39,240 or less per year for a family of five
- $45,696 or less per year for a family of six
- Pregnant Women: Pregnant women are eligible for Medicaid if their income is at or below 200% of the FPL, which is:
- $26,500 or less per year for a single person
- $36,400 or less per year for a couple
- $44,300 or less per year for a family of three
- $52,200 or less per year for a family of four
- Children: Children under the age of 19 are eligible for Medicaid if their family income is at or below 213% of the FPL, which is:
- $26,628 or less per year for a family of three
- $32,784 or less per year for a family of four
- $39,240 or less per year for a family of five
- $45,696 or less per year for a family of six
Other Eligibility Factors
In addition to income, there are other eligibility factors that may affect your Medicaid eligibility in New York. These include:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident to be eligible for Medicaid.
- Immigration Status: You must not be an undocumented immigrant to be eligible for Medicaid.
- Residency: You must be a resident of New York State to be eligible for Medicaid.
- Disability: You must have a disability or be pregnant to be eligible for Medicaid.
- Income from Other Sources: You must report all income from other sources, including but not limited to, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investments.
How to Apply for Medicaid in New York
If you think you may be eligible for Medicaid in New York, you can apply online, by phone, or in person. Here are the steps to apply:
- Visit the New York State of Health website: Go to www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov to apply online.
- Call the New York State of Health hotline: Call 1-855-355-5777 to apply by phone.
- Visit a local enrollment center: Visit a local enrollment center in person to apply.
What to Expect After Applying
After applying for Medicaid, you will receive a decision within a few weeks. If you are eligible, you will receive a Medicaid ID card and a notice of eligibility. If you are not eligible, you will receive a notice explaining why you are not eligible and how to appeal the decision.
Note: The eligibility limits and factors listed above are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the New York State of Health website or a local enrollment center for the most up-to-date information.