New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued a warning to residents about potential health insurance scams as the open enrollment period for Affordable Care Act plans begins. The enrollment window through New York's marketplace runs until December 15, 2024, with coverage starting January 1, 2025. During this time, scams tend to increase, prompting the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to offer advice on how consumers can protect themselves.
Attorney General James emphasized the importance of securing health insurance without falling victim to scammers. "New Yorkers must be able to secure health insurance free from predatory scammers trying to take advantage of them," she stated. She urged vigilance during this year's open enrollment and encouraged those who suspect fraudulent activity to contact her office. "Affordable and accessible health care is a fundamental right," she added.
Enrollment in public programs like Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential Plan remains open year-round in New York. However, annual renewal is mandatory, with notices sent out ahead of coverage end dates. For commercial health insurance for 2025, enrollment must occur between November 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025. Coverage beginning on January 1 requires enrollment by December 15; otherwise, it starts February 1.
Scammers often employ fear tactics or false offers of generosity to deceive individuals seeking or maintaining their health insurance coverage. They may threaten cancellation unless payment is made or lure people into providing personal information under false pretenses.
Attorney General James offered several tips: no fees should be charged for renewing Medicaid or similar plans; assistance from certified enrollment assistors is available at no cost; government agencies will not request payments via text or email; and only one official NY State of Health website exists.
New Yorkers suspecting scam activity are encouraged to report it online or call the OAG at 1-800-771-7755.