NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Open Enrollment is the time each year when you can sign up for health insurance if you don’t already have coverage through your job, Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or another sort of health coverage – or shop around for better coverage if you already have insurance through the State exchange. The majority of states are on the federal exchange and use HealthCare.gov, which means individuals must sign up by December 15, but here in New York, the deadline has been extended to January 31, 2018.
“Every American deserves quality, affordable health care, and this is an important opportunity to get covered. I urge residents to take advantage of the open enrollment period, avail themselves of financial assistance, and help make our city a healthier place,” said Mayor Noam Bramson.
Residents who are not insured must take action now, if you choose to go without health insurance, there is a minimum penalty of $695. Those who are covered by the New York State of Health Marketplace for 2017, should update their information and compare options for 2018.
New York State is extending the deadline to meet the needs of consumers by ensuring that they have sufficient time to enroll, and adequate access to enrollment assistance from the Customer Service Center and in-person assisters.
The Westchester County Department of Health has 8 IPAs/Navigators available in 24 locations throughout Westchester County and the Bronx. Individuals and families in New Rochelle can meet for free with trained enrollment specialists at New Rochelle Public Library (Thursdays 1:30-5:30 PM), and Westchester Department of Health (Huguenot Street- Mondays & Thursdays 9-5PM).
