Embedded Files
Benefits Frequently Asked Questions
Benefits Frequently Asked Questions
Open Enrollment & General Information
Open Enrollment & General Information
Q: When is Open Enrollment?
A: Open Enrollment runs in the first two weeks of November. The next open enrollment session is November 1st to November 15th, 2026. This is your annual opportunity to review, change, or enroll in benefits for the upcoming plan year.
Q: I am a new hire. How long do I have to enroll?
A: You have 30 days from your date of hire to make your benefit elections.
Q: What if I miss the new hire enrollment period?
A: You will need to wait until the next annual Open Enrollment period (November) or experience a Qualifying Life Event (e.g., marriage, birth of a child, loss of other coverage) to enroll.
Q: How do I enroll in benefits?
A: Enrollment forms are located on the staff site. Please complete the forms and submit them to ps1_humanresources@moma.org.
Q: Where can I find detailed information about the health plans?
A: The best resource is the Emblem Health microsite for city employees: emblemhealth.com/city. This site contains plan details, provider directories, and wellness information.
Medical Insurance (EmblemHealth)
Medical Insurance (EmblemHealth)
Q: What health insurance plans does PS1 offer?
A: PS1 offers two $0 premium medical plans:
HIP HMO: An in-network-only plan with lower copays. Requires referrals from a Primary Care Physician (PCP). New for 2026: This plan now includes a national network.
NYC PPO (formerly GHI CBP): A PPO plan offering flexibility, no referrals, and out-of-network benefits.
Q: What is changing with the PPO plan for 2026?
A: The GHI CBP plan has been renamed the NYC Employees PPO Plan (NYC PPO) . Key updates include:
One ID Card: A single card co-branded by EmblemHealth and UnitedHealthcare.
Expanded Network: In-network access now uses the UnitedHealthcare network, greatly expanding options outside of the NYC area.
$0 Copay: Visits to NYC Health + Hospitals and AdvantageCare Physicians are now $0.
New Mental Health Vendor: Mental health benefits are now managed by Optum (via UnitedHealthcare).
New Website: Visit NYCEPPO.com to search for providers.
Q: Will my current doctor still be in-network?
A: If your doctor is currently in-network within the 13 downstate New York counties, your access will not change.
Q: How do I get a new medical ID card?
A: Call EmblemHealth Member Services directly at 800-447-8255.
Prescription Drug Coverage
Prescription Drug Coverage
Q: Is prescription coverage included with my medical plan?
A: No. Prescription drug coverage requires enrolling in a Prescription Drug Rider for an additional bi-weekly cost. Without this rider, you are only covered for diabetic medications, ACA preventative medications, and addiction treatment.
Q: How much does the Prescription Drug Rider cost?
A: Rates are subject to change, but based on recent data, approximate bi-weekly deductions are:
NYC PPO (GHI): $60.39
HIP HMO: $74.49
Q: I am in a union. How do I get prescription coverage?
A: If your union offers prescription drug coverage, you are not eligible for the City’s rider. You must enroll in the plan provided by your union.
Q: What is changing with prescription mail delivery?
A: The prescription vendor is changing from Express Scripts to Prime Therapeutics. Mail-order prescriptions for maintenance drugs will now be fulfilled by Amazon Pharmacy. Look for a letter in the mail with instructions on how to set up your new account.
Q: What are the current copays for prescriptions?
A:
Retail Pharmacy (30-day supply): You pay a percentage (20% Generic / 40% Preferred Brand / 50% Non-Preferred Brand).
90-Day Supply (Retail or Mail): Flat copay.
Generic: $12.50
Preferred Brand: $50.00
Non-Preferred Brand: $75.00
Dental Insurance (Principal)
Dental Insurance (Principal)
Q: What is the annual maximum?
A: The calendar year maximum is $1,500 per person.
Q: Are orthodontics covered?
A: Yes. Orthodontia is covered at 50% with a lifetime maximum of $1,500.
Q: How often are cleanings covered?
A: Routine cleanings are covered once every six months.
Q: How do I get a new dental card?
A: Call Principal Life Insurance directly at 800-843-1371.
Vision Insurance (EyeMed)
Vision Insurance (EyeMed)
Q: How do I find an in-network eye doctor?
A: Use the provider search at eyemed.com or the EyeMed Members App.
Q: What is the eye exam copay?
A: The in-network copay for an exam is $10.
Q: How often can I get new glasses?
A: Frames are covered once every 24 months. Lenses and contact lenses are covered once every 12 months.
Q: How do I get a new vision card?
A: Call EyeMed directly at 866-800-5457.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Commuter Benefits (TASC)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Commuter Benefits (TASC)
Q: What are the 2026 contribution limits?
A:
Healthcare FSA: $3,300 per year
Dependent Care FSA: $5,000 per year
Transit Account: $325 per month
Q: Can I use my Transit Account for Uber, Lyft, or Citibike?
A: No. The Transit Account is only for eligible public transit expenses (MTA, Subway, NJ Transit, LIRR, Metro-North).
Q: Can I use my Transit Account for parking?
A: No. Parking expenses are not eligible under the Transit Account.
Q: Can I use my FSA to pay for vision or dental copays?
A: Yes. You can use your Healthcare FSA to reimburse yourself for out-of-pocket medical, dental, and vision costs.
401(k) & Pension
401(k) & Pension
Q: When am I eligible for the 401(k) plan?
A: After 90 days of employment. VOYA will send you documents by mail. Once you receive your packet, please enroll and inform HR of your election amount.
Q: Can I change my 401(k) contribution at any time?
A: Yes, you can log in to your VOYA account or contact VOYA customer service to make changes at any time.
Q: When am I eligible for the pension plan?
A: You will be enrolled in the pension plan after one (1) year of employment. A packet will be mailed to you by CIRS.
Q: What happens to my pension if I leave PS1?
A: Your benefits will be based on your years of service. If you are vested, you may be eligible to receive benefits upon reaching retirement age. You may also have the option to roll over the value of your pension into another qualified retirement account. Contact CIRS for specific guidance.
Qualifying Events & Changes
Qualifying Events & Changes
Q: What is a qualifying life event?
A: Qualifying events include:
Change in marital or domestic partnership status.
Change in number of dependents (birth, adoption).
Change in employment status (for employee or dependent).
Loss of other health coverage.
Q: I need to add my spouse to my insurance. What should I do?
A: You must inform ps1_humanresources@moma.org within 30 days of the qualifying event (e.g., marriage, birth).
Q: What happens to my benefits if I leave PS1?
A: Your benefits end on your last day of employment. You will receive information from HR regarding COBRA continuation coverage.
Page updated
Report abuse