Young Adult Option Plan

Eligibility

The Young Adult Option is available to young adults who meet ALL of the following eligibility requirements:

⇒A child, adopted child, or stepchild of a NYSHIP enrollee (including those enrolled under COBRA)

⇒Age 29 or younger

⇒Unmarried

⇒Not insured by or eligible for coverage through the young adult's own employer-sponsored health plan, whether insured or self-funded, provided that the health plan includes both hospital and medical benefits.

⇒Live, work or reside in New York State or the plan's service area.

⇒Not be covered under Medicare.

When to Enroll

Either the young adult or their parent may enroll the young adult in the Young Adult Option and either may pay the NYSHIP premium. A young adult or their parent has the following opportunities to elect this option:

⇒Within 60 days of when the young adult would otherwise lose coverage due to age under the parent's policy.

⇒Within 60 days of when the young adult becomes eligible due to:

• Loss of their employer coverage
• Relocation of residence
• Employment into New York State or the Plan's service area (please note, The Empire Plan provides coverage regardless of place of residence)
• A change in circumstances (such as divorce).
• During the annual 30-day open enrollment period