Look Out For Health Insurance Scams Amid Essential Plan Changes

New York State is warning residents to watch out for health insurance scams as changes to the Essential Plan 200-250 take effect.

Essential Plan 200-250 is no longer available effective July 1, 2026. Members affected by this change will need to enroll in a new health plan during a Special Enrollment Period. Due to this change, scammers may target people looking for new health insurance.

People may be contacted through phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media and pressured to act quickly.

Know the Warning Signs

Scammers may:

• Pressure you to enroll right away
• Ask for payment to help you renew or change coverage
• Promise low-cost plans that sound too good to be true
• Request personal information without proving they are certified to help

Protect Your Personal Information

Before sharing any personal details:

• Look for official New York State of Health, Medicaid, or Child Health Plus logos
• Only work with certified enrollment assistors, navigators, brokers, or trusted health plan representatives
• Verify phone numbers and websites before responding
• Do not click links or open attachments from unknown senders

Free Help Is Available

For assistance:

• Visit the Renew Your Health Insurance page or call Fidelis Care at 1-866-435-9521.
• Call New York State of Health at 1-855-355-5777.

Any New Yorker who suspects that he or she is a victim of a scam is encouraged to report it to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) by submitting a complaint online or calling 1-800-771-7755.