Health Insurance After Graduation
Graduating soon? Now is the time to start thinking about your health insurance coverage options.
As a young adult, you have choices:
- Stay on your parent’s health plan
- Buy your own plan
- Obtain coverage through a new job
If you decide to get your own insurance, you’ll find lots of choices at NY State of Health. There are many plans at different coverage levels and all plans cover health services such as yearly check-ups, flu shots, emergency services and prescription drugs. You may be surprised how affordable getting coverage can be. Some plans will cost less than your monthly cell phone bill and for some people, depending on income, coverage will be free.
Even though Open Enrollment has ended, you may still be able to enroll in coverage this year if you qualify for free coverage, or if you enroll within 60 days of a Qualifying Life Event. Qualifying Life Events include:
- No longer being eligible to stay on your parent’s health insurance
- Loss of other health insurance
- A permanent move to another part of New York State
- Getting married
- Having a child
Have additional questions or ready to enroll? NY State of Health has lots of trained experts who will guide you step by step in selecting and signing up for a plan that’s right for you. To find an assistor in your community, go to NY State of Health's Broker Search or call 855.355.5777, TTY: 800.662.1220.