How to Enroll

Medicaid

See if you’re eligible
To see if you’re eligible for New York Medicaid, visit the New York State of Health website and click “What do I need to apply for Medicaid?” The New York State of Health will determine what program you are eligible for based on the information you provide on your application. If you’re eligible, you can apply for Medicaid benefits directly on the New York State of Health website.

You may be eligible for Medicaid if:
- You live in one of these counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans or Wyoming.
- You have high medical bills.
- You receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) — see below.*
- You meet certain income, resource, age or disability requirements.
  *If you receive SSI, you automatically receive Medicaid without the need to apply.
Enroll
Once approved for Medicaid, you can enroll with Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York by going to the NY State of Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace website.

Need help enrolling?
Call 1-844-885-1004
Check your mail
Once enrolled in Highmark BCBSWNY, we will send you a welcome packet with your member handbook and other helpful information about your plan. You will receive your Medicaid membership ID card in a separate mailing.

See if your child is eligible
To see if your child is eligible for New York Child Health Plus, visit the New York Child Health Plus website and click “Who is eligible?” The New York State of Health will determine if your child is eligible for Child Health Plus based on the information you provide on his or her application. If your child is eligible, you can apply for Child Health Plus benefits directly on the New York State of Health website.

Your child may be eligible for Child Health Plus if:
- He or she is under the age of 19.
- He or she is not eligible for Medicaid.
- He or she has little or no other health insurance coverage.
- His or her family lives in one of these counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans or Wyoming.
  
  A child does not have to be a citizen or legal resident to qualify for Child Health Plus. Participation in this program will not affect any future immigration status.
Enroll
Once approved for Child Health Plus, you can enroll with Highmark BCBSWNY of Western New York by going to the NY State of Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace website.

Need help enrolling?
Call 1-844-885-1004

Check your mail
Highmark BCBSWNY will send you a welcome packet and your child’s member ID card in two separate mailings.

See if you're eligible
Visit the New York Medicaid website to check your eligibility.
Enroll
Visit the NY State of Health,
the Official Health Plan Marketplace website.
Need help enrolling?
Call 1-844-885-1004
Check your mail
Highmark BCBSWNY will send you a welcome packet and your member ID card in two separate mailings.