Nearly 450,000 Lose Essential Plan Coverage as New SNAP Work Requirements
Add Pressure on Low- and Moderate-Income Families
By Sadia J. Choudhury | New York
New York is facing major changes to two critical public-assistance programs, with significant consequences for low- and moderate-income residents. Changes under federal law have narrowed eligibility for the state’s Essential Plan, leaving an estimated 450,000 New Yorkers without the coverage, while new work requirements are affecting certain recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The changes mean that some New Yorkers must now find alternative health insurance coverage, while certain SNAP recipients are required to work or participate in approved activities to maintain their benefits.
For families already struggling with the rising cost of housing, food, health care and other necessities, the changes could create additional financial pressure.
MAJOR CHANGE TO THE ESSENTIAL PLAN
Beginning July 1, 2026, many New Yorkers with household incomes between 200% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level are no longer eligible for the Essential Plan.
According to New York State estimates, approximately 450,000 people are affected by the change.
The Essential Plan has served as an important health insurance option for lower-income New Yorkers who do not qualify for Medicaid but may have difficulty affording private insurance.
Those losing eligibility may now need to transition to a Qualified Health Plan or another form of health coverage.
Health Care Costs Could Rise
Unlike the Essential Plan, alternative health insurance plans may involve monthly premiums, deductibles and higher out-of-pocket medical expenses.
For families living on limited or moderate incomes, the change could therefore mean significantly higher health care costs.
State officials are urging individuals who are losing Essential Plan eligibility to review their health insurance options and enroll in alternative coverage if eligible.
NEW SNAP WORK REQUIREMENTS
Changes are also affecting SNAP, the federal food assistance program.
New work requirements apply to certain Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) receiving SNAP benefits.
For individuals covered by the requirement, they generally must complete 80 hours per month of work or qualifying activities.
Approved activities may include:
* Employment
* Job search
* Education
* Workforce training
* Certain volunteer activities
However, the new requirement does not apply to every SNAP recipient. Certain individuals may qualify for exemptions based on age, family circumstances, disability or other qualifying conditions.
FAILURE TO MEET REQUIREMENTS COULD AFFECT SNAP BENEFITS
SNAP recipients who are subject to the work requirement and fail to meet the applicable rules could lose their benefits.
New York City officials are advising recipients to carefully review notices from the Human Resources Administration and determine whether the work requirement applies to them or whether they qualify for an exemption.
Keeping accurate records of work, training, education or other qualifying activities may also be important for individuals subject to the requirement.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR NEW YORK FAMILIES
The simultaneous changes to health insurance eligibility and food assistance requirements create a new landscape for thousands of New York households.
Families that rely on both affordable health coverage and SNAP may face additional administrative requirements and, in some cases, higher household expenses.
However, eligibility is determined on an individual basis. Income, age, household composition, employment status and other circumstances can affect whether a person remains eligible for a particular benefit or qualifies for an exemption.
WHY ARE 450,000 PEOPLE LOSING ESSENTIAL PLAN COVERAGE?
Change Effective: July 1, 2026
Affected Income Range: Many individuals between 200% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level
Estimated Impact: Approximately 450,000 New Yorkers
What happens next?
Those who no longer qualify may need to enroll in another health insurance plan.
Potential additional costs:
Premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket medical expenses may apply.
WHO IS AFFECTED BY THE 80-HOUR SNAP RULE?
Who: Certain SNAP recipients classified as ABAWDs
Requirement: Generally 80 hours per month of work or qualifying activity
Possible qualifying activities:
Employment, education, job search, workforce training and certain volunteer activities.
Does it apply to everyone?
No. Exemptions may apply depending on age, household circumstances, disability and other factors.
Failure to comply:
Eligible recipients subject to the rule could lose SNAP benefits if they do not meet the applicable requirements.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NOW?
If you are losing Essential Plan coverage
Review your health insurance options as soon as possible and determine whether you qualify for another plan.
If you receive SNAP
Read every notice from HRA carefully and determine whether the new work requirement applies to you.
If you believe you qualify for an exemption
Contact the appropriate agency and make sure your exemption is properly documented.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
New York State of Health
1-855-355-5777
NYC HRA SNAP Assistance
718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669)
PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE
Know the new rules. Check your eligibility. Take action before you risk losing essential benefits.
