Ready to Join The Empire Plan? 

It’s as Easy as 1-2-3

1. See your agency Health Benefits Administrator before the Option Transfer deadline.*
2. Complete and sign a Health Insurance Transaction Form PS-404 before the deadline. Or change your option online on MyNYSHIP if you are a NYS active employee or retiree and are a registered user.
3. Your new coverage will begin and a deduction change will be made in your paycheck (or your pension check if a NY/PE retiree) depending upon your payroll schedule. See your agency HBA for specific information. You will also receive new identification card(s) in the mail. If you need to access benefits before receiving your card, contact The Empire Plan at 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-769-7447).

*Note that NY/PE retirees are not subject to an Option Transfer deadline and may change their health insurance plan at any time once in a twelve month period. Changing plans outside the Option Transfer period is not permitted for active employees, except in certain limited circumstances.