The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recently announced that, effective January 1, 2026, compensation to licensed brokers and agents for Essential Plan health coverage via the NY State of Health Marketplace will no longer be permitted for new enrollments or renewals. The Essential Plan is an affordable health plan for New York residents who are not eligible for Medicaid but fall at or below certain income and household size guidelines.
The compensation prohibition disregards the value that independent agents and brokers deliver to consumers trying to navigate often complex health insurance options. The New York State Chapter of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) has been a vocal in raising awareness with lawmakers and the independent agent and broker community to persuade the DOH to reverse course on this shortsighted policy change. In communications to DOH leaders NABIP cites the important advisor and advocate role that brokers take on, often for consumers who reside in underserved communities and for whom English is their second language.
If you wish to register your concern with lawmakers, please do so via NABIP’s Call To Action. Like Big I New York advocacy, NABIP offers a pre-drafted letter that is sent to your state lawmakers and the Governor after entering your address.