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The Essential Plan is a New York State health plan for people with low or middle incomes who can't get coverage through a job and don't qualify for Medicaid. The Attorney General describes it as a low-cost Affordable Care Act marketplace plan with "$0 monthly premiums, no deductibles, and extremely low copays." You apply through NY State of Health (1-855-355-5777).
The numbers (as of 2026-10-12)
FPL means the federal poverty level, a yearly income figure set by household size. "200% FPL" means twice that amount. For self-employed drivers, the income that counts comes from your tax return and recent earnings, so ask a free assistor how to report driving income before you apply.
What changed in 2026
Because of federal funding cuts in the H.R. 1 law, New York ended its Section 1332 waiver and went back to a Basic Health Program. NY State of Health says people with income between 200% and 250% FPL lost the Essential Plan on July 1, 2026. People under 200% keep the same benefits. Separate rules apply to pregnant people and DACA recipients. The full driver explainer is Essential Plan cut in 2026.
Where you'll see this term
- On NY State of Health notices and your online account.
- When a free assistor screens you for coverage, including the Drivers Benefits Healthcare Enrollment line for app and black car drivers.
- In news and Attorney General warnings about health-plan scams. Real enrollment is always free.
Common mix-ups
- Not Medicaid. Medicaid covers lower incomes and is free. The Essential Plan covers the band just above Medicaid.
- Not a marketplace "metal" plan. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum plans (Qualified Health Plans) have premiums and deductibles. The Essential Plan has neither.
- Not NYC Care. NYC Care is a city access program at NYC Health + Hospitals, not insurance.
- Not Black Car Fund benefits. Drivers Benefits give app drivers dental, vision and telemedicine, but they aren't health insurance.
Related: health insurance for NYC drivers in 2026, NYC Care for drivers, retirement savings and the money topic.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Essential Plan?
A low-cost health plan sold through NY State of Health, the state marketplace, for some low- and middle-income New Yorkers who can't get employer coverage or Medicaid. It has $0 monthly premiums and no deductible.
What is the income limit in 2026?
Since July 1, 2026, household income up to 200% of the federal poverty level: $31,920 for one person, $43,280 for two, $54,640 for three and $66,000 for four.
Is the Essential Plan the same as Medicaid?
No. Medicaid is free coverage for lower incomes. The Essential Plan sits above Medicaid's income range. Both are run through NY State of Health and both are open for enrollment all year if you qualify.
Can I join any time?
Yes, if you are eligible. NY State of Health says enrollment is open all year for the Essential Plan, Medicaid and Child Health Plus.
Sources
Last reviewed against the official sources on .
- NY State of Health: Essential Plan changes due to federal rules info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov
- NY Attorney General: Guidance to New Yorkers Facing Health Insurance Changes (Jun 22, 2026) ag.ny.gov
- NY State of Health: Enrollment info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we'll check it against the official source.
TLC Help is not a law firm and is not affiliated with the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission or OATH. Explanations on this site are general information, not legal advice. Legal representation is provided by independent attorneys and OATH-registered representatives in our network.