The New York State Department of Health has announced the start of Open Enrollment for 2026 health insurance coverage through NY State of Health, the state’s official health plan marketplace. The enrollment period began on November 1, 2025, and will run until January 31, 2026.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the importance of this period for residents seeking coverage. “Open Enrollment is a critical opportunity for all New Yorkers to secure health insurance coverage they need for themselves and their families,” he said. “New York remains steadfast in its commitment to providing high-quality, affordable health insurance. With improved dental benefits and a strong marketplace, we are making it easier than ever for residents to say yes to their health.”
Danielle Holahan, Executive Director of NY State of Health, highlighted the state’s continued focus on accessible care despite federal changes. “Yes, NY means saying yes to your health, and saying yes to the coverage you deserve,” she stated. “Despite unprecedented federal cuts and changes to health care programs nationwide, in New York we are committed to protecting coverage and ensuring that consumers can access quality health care.”
Sonia Sekhar, Deputy Director of NY State of Health, addressed concerns about potential impacts from federal legislation: “New York has built one of the strongest health plan marketplaces in the nation with an uninsured rate of less than 5%, but the new federal legislation and potential expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits would unravel a decade of progress we’ve made in keeping insurance affordable,” she said. “Our priority now is to keep people informed, supported and connected to care as we fight to protect their health and their futures.”
Enrollment opened on November 1 for those seeking new Qualified Health Plans (QHPs), while current enrollees can renew starting November 16. Consumers are encouraged to enroll by December 15 if they want their coverage effective January 1.
Currently, more than 6.7 million individuals use NY State of Health Marketplace services across New York State. Of these participants, approximately 220,000 are enrolled in QHPs; among them about 140,000 benefit from enhanced premium tax credits provided under previous federal laws such as the American Rescue Plan Act (2021) and extended by the Inflation Reduction Act (2022). These subsidies have contributed significantly to record enrollments but are set to expire at the end of December unless Congress acts further.
If these enhanced premium tax credits expire without Congressional intervention, premiums could increase by nearly 40% for affected consumers—a change expected not only to impact individuals but also create broader economic effects on hospitals and healthcare centers statewide.
For plan year 2026, improved dental options will be available through all Stand Alone Dental Plan issuers participating in the Marketplace; standard plans will feature uniform benefits and coinsurance rates so consumers can compare options more easily. Dental coverage continues within certain QHPs as well.
Twelve issuers will offer Qualified Health Plans this year—all covering preventive care such as routine doctor visits and screenings as well as pre-existing conditions at no extra cost.
Programs like Essential Plan, Medicaid and Child Health Plus remain open year-round with comprehensive benefits including vision and dental services—these come with no monthly premiums or deductibles plus low cost-sharing requirements.
Small businesses may also benefit from reduced costs via federal Small Business Healthcare Tax Credits when purchasing certified plans through NY State of Health’s Small Business Marketplace; over 22,000 employers currently participate in this program.
NY State of Health provides a single platform where residents can compare different insurance options before enrolling.
