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Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in New York

Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in New York: Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan & More [2025]

Last updated: September 2025

This New York–specific hub cuts through red tape. It gives you the exact income limits, dollar amounts, deadlines, phone numbers, and application links you need to get covered fast.


Quick Help Box (start here)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (New York 2025)

Program Who it covers 2025 income limit (household of 1–4) Cost to you How to apply / phone
Medicaid (Adults 19–64) Single adults, parents/caretakers Up to 138% FPL. 1: 21,597∗∗;2:∗∗21,597**; 2: **29,187; 3: 36,777∗∗;4:∗∗36,777**; 4: **44,367 $0 premiums; minimal/regulated copays NY State of Health or 1‑855‑355‑5777. FPL source: ASPE. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Medicaid (Pregnancy) Pregnant individuals (regardless of how pregnancy ends), infants <1 Up to 223% FPL (monthly: 3: 4,953∗∗;4:∗∗4,953**; 4: **5,975). 12‑month postpartum coverage. $0 Apply, PE via prenatal providers. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
Medicaid (Children 1–18) Children 1–18 Up to 154% FPL (monthly: 3: 3,421∗∗;4:∗∗3,421**; 4: **4,126). Continuous coverage to age 6 (from 1/1/2025). $0 Apply; CHPlus if over income. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
Child Health Plus (CHIP) Children under 19 Sliding premiums if over Children’s Medicaid limit; see table below 0–0–60 per child/month (max 3 children) 1‑800‑698‑4543; CHPlus eligibility & cost. 2025 table below. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
Essential Plan (Basic Health Program) Adults 19–64, lawfully present, not Medicaid/CHPlus, not offered affordable job coverage Up to 250% FPL. 2025 max income: 1: 39,125∗∗;2:∗∗39,125**; 2: **52,875; 3: 66,625∗∗;4:∗∗66,625**; 4: **80,375. DACA included. **0∗∗premium;0** premium; 0 deductible; very low copays (see grid) Essential Plan info + apply or 1‑855‑355‑5777. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
Marketplace Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) Adults/families over Essential Plan limits Enhanced tax credits through 12/31/2025, capping benchmark costs; extra NY cost‑sharing help in 2025 (pregnant/postpartum, diabetes, and 250–400% FPL) Varies; many pay ≤8.5% of income for benchmark plan Open Enrollment Nov 1–Jan 31; enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 start. (healthcare.gov, health.ny.gov)

Why this guide is different (and better than typical search results)

  • Every dollar amount and deadline here is pulled from official New York State or federal sources and dated for 2025.
  • You’ll get exact premium/contribution tables (CHPlus), real income caps (Medicaid, Essential Plan), and real call numbers.
  • Each section ends with a Plan B if your first option doesn’t work.
  • We include realistic timelines and the common mistakes that cause delays.

Key 2025 changes New York single mothers should know

  • Essential Plan now goes up to 250% FPL with $0 premiums, and includes DACA recipients (effective 8/1/2024). (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • New York added extra cost‑sharing help in 2025 for QHP enrollees: pregnant/postpartum people, people with diabetes, and households 250–400% FPL. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • Children on Medicaid/CHPlus now keep continuous coverage until their 6th birthday (effective 1/1/2025). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
  • Postpartum Medicaid/CHPlus coverage lasts 12 months after the pregnancy ends, regardless of immigration status. (health.ny.gov)
  • Medicaid covers doula services statewide (8 visits + labor support) at $0 to members; coverage now integrated in managed care as of 1/1/2025. (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)

Medicaid for Adults (single moms, parents/caretakers 19–64)

Most important action first

2025 income limits (MAGI adults)

New York covers adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Using 2025 HHS poverty guidelines:

  • Household of 1: up to $21,597 per year
  • Household of 2: up to $29,187
  • Household of 3: up to $36,777
  • Household of 4: up to $44,367

(And so on. Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines.) (aspe.hhs.gov)

What Medicaid covers

  • Primary and specialty care, hospital, maternity, behavioral health, prescription drugs, lab/imaging, dental (broadly covered), vision in certain contexts. See overview and dental coverage details. (health.ny.gov)

Required documents (typical)

  • Identity and date of birth (ID), Social Security number (if you have one), New York residency proof, and income proof (recent pay stubs or self‑employment records). You can upload via your NYSOH account or app. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Timeline

  • Standard Medicaid decisions within 45 days; 30 days if pregnant or applying for a child; up to 90 days if disability needs review. (health.ny.gov)

Tips and reality checks

  • Update your income anytime in your NYSOH account so you don’t get overpayment issues at tax time.
  • If an employer plan is offered but costs more than 9.02% of your household income for required family coverage in 2025, you may still qualify for Marketplace help. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If you’re slightly over Medicaid income, check the Essential Plan (below). If you’re well over, check QHPs with tax credits through 2025. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov, healthcare.gov)
  • If immigration status is a barrier, see “Coverage options for immigrants” and Emergency Medicaid details below. (health.ny.gov)

Medicaid for Pregnant Individuals (PCAP + 12‑month postpartum)

Most important action first

  • Ask your prenatal clinic or hospital to do Presumptive Eligibility (PE) today so prenatal care can start immediately while your full application processes. Providers are required to assist. (health.ny.gov)

2025 income limits (pregnancy and infants)

  • Pregnant individuals and infants <1: up to 223% FPL (monthly, 2025): 3-person household 4,953∗∗;4‑person∗∗4,953**; 4‑person **5,975. Remember to count the unborn child(ren) in household size. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Postpartum coverage

  • Coverage lasts 12 months after the pregnancy ends, regardless of immigration status or how the pregnancy ends. (health.ny.gov)

Extra help in 2025

  • Medicaid now covers doula services statewide: up to 8 prenatal/postpartum visits plus labor support, at $0 cost to you. (health.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If you’re over income for Medicaid but lawfully present, you may qualify for the Essential Plan with $0 premium. If not lawfully present, Emergency Medicaid covers labor/delivery and life‑threatening emergencies. NYC residents can get comprehensive care through NYC Care. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)

Children’s Coverage (Medicaid and Child Health Plus)

Most important action first

  • Submit your child’s application through NY State of Health. If over income for Children’s Medicaid, the system will route to Child Health Plus (CHPlus) automatically. (health.ny.gov)

Medicaid for children 1–18 (2025)

  • Up to 154% FPL (monthly: 3 3,421∗∗;4∗∗3,421**; 4 **4,126). Children now have continuous coverage to age 6 (effective 1/1/2025). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Child Health Plus (CHIP) — premiums and caps (2025)

  • No deductibles. No co‑pays. Premium contributions depend on income; capped at 3 children. Full 2025 table:
Family Contribution per child Monthly household income by family size (1–8) Each add’l
Free ($0) 1: 2,896∗∗⋅2:∗∗2,896** · 2: **3,913 · 3: 4,931∗∗⋅4:∗∗4,931** · 4: **5,948 · 5: 6,966∗∗⋅6:∗∗6,966** · 6: **7,983 · 7: 9,001∗∗⋅8:∗∗9,001** · 8: **10,018 $1,018
15∗∗(max∗∗15** (max **45/family) 1: 3,261∗∗⋅2:∗∗3,261** · 2: **4,407 · 3: 5,553∗∗⋅4:∗∗5,553** · 4: **6,698 · 5: 7,844∗∗⋅6:∗∗7,844** · 6: **8,990 · 7: 10,136∗∗⋅8:∗∗10,136** · 8: **11,282 $1,146
30∗∗(max∗∗30** (max **90/family) 1: 3,913∗∗⋅2:∗∗3,913** · 2: **5,288 · 3: 6,663∗∗⋅4:∗∗6,663** · 4: **8,038 · 5: 9,413∗∗⋅6:∗∗9,413** · 6: **10,788 · 7: 12,163∗∗⋅8:∗∗12,163** · 8: **13,538 $1,375
45∗∗(max∗∗45** (max **135/family) 1: 4,565∗∗⋅2:∗∗4,565** · 2: **6,169 · 3: 7,773∗∗⋅4:∗∗7,773** · 4: **9,378 · 5: 10,982∗∗⋅6:∗∗10,982** · 6: **12,586 · 7: 14,190∗∗⋅8:∗∗14,190** · 8: **15,794 $1,605
60∗∗(max∗∗60** (max **180/family) 1: 5,217∗∗⋅2:∗∗5,217** · 2: **7,050 · 3: 8,884∗∗⋅4:∗∗8,884** · 4: **10,717 · 5: 12,550∗∗⋅6:∗∗12,550** · 6: **14,384 · 7: 16,217∗∗⋅8:∗∗16,217** · 8: **18,050 $1,834
Full premium Above the $60 band for your size —

Source: NYS DOH CHPlus Eligibility & Cost (2025). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

What’s covered in CHPlus

  • Well‑child visits, immunizations, hospital, ER, mental health/substance use care, dental including medically necessary orthodontia, and vision. No co‑pays. (health.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

Essential Plan (New York’s $0 premium plan up to 250% FPL)

Most important action first

Who qualifies in 2025

  • New York resident, lawfully present, ages 19–64, not eligible for Medicaid/CHPlus and not offered affordable employer coverage. 2025 maximum income: 1 39,125∗∗;2∗∗39,125**; 2 **52,875; 3 66,625∗∗;4∗∗66,625**; 4 **80,375. DACA recipients are eligible (effective 8/1/2024). (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Cost sharing in 2025

Benefit Lower band (≈100–150% FPL) Upper band (≈150–250% FPL)
Monthly premium $0 $0
Deductible $0 $0
Primary care $0 $15
Specialist $0 $25
ER $0 $75
Inpatient per admission $0 $150
Generic Rx 1∗∗(or∗∗1** (or **0 under $15,060 annual) $6
Dental & Vision $0 $0

Source: NY State of Health Essential Plan page (2025). (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If your income is over 250% FPL or you have employer coverage that’s unaffordable for the family, look at Marketplace QHPs with tax credits (below). (healthcare.gov)

Marketplace Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) with tax credits

Most important action first

  • Preview savings and plans at NY State of Health. Open Enrollment for 2025 coverage is Nov 1–Jan 31. Enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 coverage. (health.ny.gov)

What you’ll pay in 2025

  • Federal law keeps the enhanced subsidies through 12/31/2025, so many households pay no more than about 8.5% of income for the benchmark silver plan. New York adds extra cost‑sharing help in 2025 for households 250–400% FPL, and for pregnant/postpartum individuals and people with diabetes. (healthcare.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

  • If premiums are still too high, meet with a Navigator to double‑check your income estimate, dependent count, and employer affordability rules. Free help: 1‑855‑355‑5777 or local assistor. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Family Planning Benefit Program (FPBP) and Family Planning Extension

Most important action first

  • If you’re not eligible for full Medicaid but need contraception, exams, or related services, apply for FPBP (income up to 223% FPL) for free, confidential family planning. (health.ny.gov)

What’s covered

  • FDA‑approved birth control, emergency contraception, STI testing/treatment when related to family planning, Pap tests, counseling, and transportation to family planning visits. (health.ny.gov)

Extension after pregnancy

  • After Medicaid pregnancy coverage ends, many people shift to the Family Planning Extension Program for contraception for up to 24 months after the initial 60‑day postpartum period. (health.ny.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B)

Coverage options for immigrants (including undocumented)

  • Children under 19 can get Child Health Plus regardless of immigration status if otherwise eligible by income. Apply through NY State of Health. (health.ny.gov)
  • Pregnant individuals get full Medicaid during pregnancy and 12 months postpartum regardless of immigration status. (health.ny.gov)
  • Lawfully present adults (including DACA, as of 8/1/2024) may qualify for the Essential Plan up to 250% FPL. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • If you’re undocumented and not pregnant/under 19, Emergency Medicaid can pay for true emergencies (including labor and delivery) but not routine care. Info, definition, and the 12‑month authorization window are here: Emergency Medicaid fact sheet. NYC residents should look at NYC Care (1‑646‑692‑2273). (health.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)

Transportation to appointments (no cost)

  • If you have Medicaid, you can schedule non‑emergency rides to and from appointments, WIC visits, dental visits, etc.
    • Downstate counties (NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Putnam): 844‑666‑6270
    • Upstate counties: 866‑932‑7740
    • Request at least 72 hours in advance; urgent trips may be accommodated. Details: Medicaid Transportation. (health.ny.gov)

Dental and vision basics

  • Medicaid covers routine and medically necessary dental services (exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, crowns, root canals; implants in some cases). (health.ny.gov)
  • Essential Plan includes adult dental and vision with $0 premium and low copays (see grid above). (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • CHPlus includes dental (including medically necessary orthodontia) and vision for kids with no co‑pays. (health.ny.gov)

Real‑world examples (New York single‑mom scenarios)

  • Buffalo mom, 1 child, making 38,000∗∗/year:Mom’sincomeisunder∗∗25038,000**/year: Mom’s income is under **250% FPL**, so she qualifies for the **Essential Plan** (**0 premium, low copays). Her 7‑year‑old’s income test puts the child in Child Health Plus; at 2‑person household income 3,166/month∗∗,likelythe∗∗3,166/month**, likely the **30 band — $30/month for the child, no co‑pays. Apply via NY State of Health. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
  • Queens mom, pregnant with twins, household of 3 (mom + unborn twins), earning 4,900/month∗∗:Eligiblefor∗∗pregnancyMedicaid∗∗(2234,900/month**: Eligible for **pregnancy Medicaid** (223% FPL monthly for HH3 is **4,953), gets immediate Presumptive Eligibility at her prenatal clinic, full coverage through 12 months postpartum. She can also schedule $0 doula services. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
  • Syracuse mom, 2 kids, earning $60,000/year: Mom is over 250% FPL, so she uses a QHP with enhanced tax credits through 2025; kids likely CHPlus with a sliding premium (see 2025 table). She enrolls during Open Enrollment (Nov 1–Jan 31), choosing a plan by Dec 15 to start Jan 1. (healthcare.gov, health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

How to apply (fastest path)

Application Checklist (bring/upload these)

  • Proof of identity and date of birth for each person
  • Social Security numbers (if you have them)
  • Proof you live in New York (mail, lease, utility bill)
  • Proof of income (recent pay stubs, self‑employment records, benefit letters)
  • If pregnant: proof of pregnancy (your clinic can help)
  • Any current insurance cards or termination letters

Upload via your account/app or ask an assistor to upload for you; NYSOH accepts secure mobile uploads. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Processing timelines (what to expect)

  • Decision within 45 days (most cases), 30 days if pregnant/children, or up to 90 days if a disability review is needed. (health.ny.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Estimating income too low/high. Update any new job, hours, or gig income right away to avoid tax credit issues.
  • Missing the plan selection step after you’re found eligible. Eligibility is not enrollment: you must pick a plan.
  • Not counting unborn babies in the household size when pregnant (this can cost you eligibility). (health.ny.gov)
  • Skipping document uploads. Use the upload tool or the mobile app; ask an assistor to help. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • Assuming rides aren’t covered. If you have Medicaid, schedule rides with MAS 72 hours ahead. (health.ny.gov)

If this still isn’t working (Plan B options by need)

  • Need care now but not enrolled yet: Use a nearby FQHC on a sliding‑fee scale: Find a Health Center. (datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)
  • NYC residents ineligible for insurance: NYC Care — 1‑646‑692‑2273 — low/no‑cost primary, specialty, mental health, meds. (nyccare.nyc)
  • HIV meds/care cost help up to 500% FPL: NY Uninsured Care Programs/ADAP (rapid processing in 1–3 business days). (health.ny.gov)
  • WIC food benefits and breastfeeding support (pregnant/postpartum and kids <5): 1‑800‑522‑5006 and How to Apply. (health.ny.gov)
  • Telehealth: New York Medicaid covers audio/video telehealth broadly. Ask your clinic if telehealth is available. (health.ny.gov)

Local contacts: Social Services (by region)

Use these county lines to reach your local Department of Social Services (help with Medicaid, documents, mail‑in processes). Full list on DOH page. (health.ny.gov)

  • NYC (HRA): 718‑557‑1399
  • Long Island: Nassau 516‑227‑7474; Suffolk 631‑854‑9700
  • Lower Hudson: Westchester 914‑995‑4669; Rockland 845‑364‑3040; Putnam 845‑225‑7040
  • Mid‑Hudson/Valley: Dutchess 845‑486‑3000; Orange 845‑291‑4000
  • Capital Region: Albany 518‑447‑7492; Rensselaer 518‑270‑3928; Schenectady 518‑388‑4470
  • Central NY: Onondaga 315‑435‑2928; Oneida 315‑798‑5632
  • Western NY: Erie 716‑858‑8000; Monroe 585‑753‑6000; Niagara 716‑278‑8402
  • North Country: St. Lawrence 315‑379‑2111; Jefferson 315‑782‑9030

Diverse Communities: tailored pointers

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many FQHCs and NYC Care sites advertise LGBTQ+‑affirming care. Use HRSA’s finder to select clinics with gender‑affirming services, or call NYC Care (1‑646‑692‑2273) and ask for LGBTQ+‑friendly sites. (datawarehouse.hrsa.gov, nyccare.nyc)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: You may qualify under non‑MAGI Medicaid rules (resource limits apply). 2025 resource levels for aged/blind/disabled Medicaid show higher thresholds than in past years (e.g., individual $32,396). Apply via your county DSS if you need a spenddown. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: You can use Medicaid/CHPlus plus VA care if eligible. For civilian coverage, apply through NYSOH and also ask your local VA facility about Women Veterans Program services (care can be used alongside state coverage).
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: See immigration notes above (CHPlus and pregnancy Medicaid regardless of status; Essential Plan for lawfully present adults; Emergency Medicaid for emergencies). NYC: NYC Care 1‑646‑692‑2273. (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)
  • Tribal citizens: If you’re Akwesasne/St. Regis Mohawk or another Native community in NY, contact St. Regis Mohawk Health Services (518‑358‑3141) for integrated medical, dental, pharmacy, and WIC, and use NYSOH for state coverage. (srmt-nsn.gov)
  • Rural single moms: Use Medicaid transportation (MAS) for rides to in‑network providers; ask clinics about telehealth (covered). (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
  • Single fathers raising kids: All programs here are gender‑neutral; the same income rules apply.
  • Language access: NYSOH provides free interpreter services by phone 1‑855‑355‑5777; NYC Care supports 250+ languages. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov, nyccare-prod2.azurewebsites.net)

Key Tables You Can Use Today

Table — 2025 Adult Medicaid (MAGI) income caps (138% FPL)

Household size Max annual income
1 $21,597
2 $29,187
3 $36,777
4 $44,367
5 $51,957
6 $59,547

Source: 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines; ACA MAGI adult limit = 138% FPL. (aspe.hhs.gov)

Table — 2025 Medicaid (pregnancy & children) monthly limits

Category HH3 HH4
Pregnant/Infants <1 (223% FPL) $4,953 $5,975
Children 1–18 (154% FPL) $3,421 $4,126

Source: NYS DOH (effective Jan 1, 2025). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Table — Essential Plan 2025: maximum income to qualify

Size Max annual income
1 $39,125
2 $52,875
3 $66,625
4 $80,375

Source: NY State of Health Essential Plan. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Table — Essential Plan 2025: common copays (by income band)

Service Lower band (~100–150% FPL) Upper band (~150–250% FPL)
PCP visit $0 $15
Specialist $0 $25
Generic Rx 1∗∗(or∗∗1** (or **0 if income < $15,060) $6
Inpatient per admission $0 $150

Source: NY State of Health Essential Plan. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

Table — Child Health Plus (CHIP) 2025 premiums

See the full CHPlus table above for where your family fits (from 0∗∗to∗∗0** to **60 per child/month; cap of 3 children). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

Table — Application & renewal timelines

Step Timeframe
Medicaid decision Up to 45 days (most cases)
Pregnancy/children decision Within 30 days
Disability‑based Medicaid Up to 90 days
QHP Open Enrollment (2025) Nov 1–Jan 31; enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 start

Sources: NYS DOH “How to Apply” and NYSOH press releases. (health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)

Health‑adjacent help most single moms use

  • WIC: food packages, formula when medically needed, nutrition counseling, breastfeeding support. Hotline 1‑800‑522‑5006; How to Apply. (health.ny.gov)
  • Medicaid dental: robust adult dental benefits (see list) and expanded policies in 2024–2025. (health.ny.gov)
  • Non‑emergency rides (Medicaid): MAS Downstate 844‑666‑6270; Upstate 866‑932‑7740. Book 72 hours in advance. (health.ny.gov)
  • Telehealth: NY Medicaid covers audio/video visits broadly. (health.ny.gov)

Quick “Apply Now” Steps (in order)

  • Create or log in to your NY State of Health account: nystateofhealth.ny.gov
  • Use the built‑in screening to check Medicaid, Essential Plan, or QHP in one application.
  • Upload documents (income, residency, ID). You can upload on your phone. If stuck, call 1‑855‑355‑5777 or ask an assistor to upload for you. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
  • If found eligible, choose a plan right away so coverage starts the next available month.

Region‑specific resources (examples)

  • NYC: NYC Care 1‑646‑692‑2273 for uninsured; HRA 718‑557‑1399 for Medicaid support. (nyccare.nyc, health.ny.gov)
  • Long Island: Nassau DSS 516‑227‑7474; Suffolk DSS 631‑854‑9700. (health.ny.gov)
  • Capital Region: Albany DSS 518‑447‑7492; Rensselaer 518‑270‑3928. (health.ny.gov)
  • Western NY: Erie DSS 716‑858‑8000; Monroe 585‑753‑6000. (health.ny.gov)
  • North Country: St. Lawrence 315‑379‑2111; Jefferson 315‑782‑9030. (health.ny.gov)

FAQs (New York‑specific, 2025)

  1. What if I missed Open Enrollment?
  • Medicaid, CHPlus, and the Essential Plan are year‑round. QHPs require Open Enrollment (Nov 1–Jan 31) unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. (health.ny.gov)
  1. I’m pregnant. Can I start care before my application is approved?
  • Yes. Ask your clinic to do Presumptive Eligibility so care starts immediately. (health.ny.gov)
  1. My job offers insurance, but it’s expensive for my family. Can I still get help?
  • Possibly. If required family coverage costs ≥9.02% of household income in 2025, your family may qualify for Marketplace savings. (healthcare.gov)
  1. Are postpartum visits covered?
  • Yes. Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months after the pregnancy ends under Medicaid/CHPlus. (health.ny.gov)
  1. Do kids keep coverage if my income changes?
  1. Does Medicaid cover dental?
  • Yes. Exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, crowns, root canals, and more (when medically necessary). (health.ny.gov)
  1. I don’t drive. How do I get to appointments?
  • If you have Medicaid: schedule rides with MAS — Downstate 844‑666‑6270, Upstate 866‑932‑7740 — 72 hours ahead. (health.ny.gov)
  1. I’m undocumented and not pregnant. Any care options?
  • Emergency Medicaid for emergencies; NYC residents can use NYC Care for primary/specialty care regardless of status (1‑646‑692‑2273). (health.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)
  1. Where can I get free help applying?
  1. Do I need to re‑enroll every year?
  • Yes. NYSOH will send notices. Don’t ignore them — upload documents, renew on time, and keep your address current. Continuous coverage rules protect kids under 6, but you still need to respond. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from New York Department of Health/NY State of Health, USDA, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

  • Program amounts, premiums, income limits, and policies can change mid‑year. Always confirm details with the agency or on the official site before making decisions. We link to government and established nonprofit sources throughout this page.
  • Health content here is general information, not medical or legal advice.
  • Security note: We never ask for your SSN, bank logins, or credit card. Always apply directly through official portals like nystateofhealth.ny.gov or by calling verified agency numbers listed above.

Sources (selected)

If you need help right now, call NY State of Health at 1‑855‑355‑5777 (TTY 1‑800‑662‑1220) and ask for a Navigator in your language. (nystateofhealth.ny.gov)

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