Yes, NYS (New York State) retirees do pay for health insurance. The amount of payment depends on factors such as the retiree’s years of service, the type of coverage they have, and their income. The health insurance program for NYS retirees is called the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP).
Retirees who are in the NYSHIP program may have different options for health insurance coverage. Those who were hired before July 1, 1973, and their dependents may be eligible for free health insurance coverage. Meanwhile, retirees who were hired after July 1, 1973, have to pay for their coverage. However, NYS offers a retiree contribution to help defray the costs of the health insurance premiums.
Retirees with less than 10 years of service may have to pay higher premiums than those with more than 10 years of service. The monthly premiums are also based on the retiree’s income. For example, retirees with an annual income of less than $50,000 may have to pay 12% of their health insurance premiums while those with an annual income of more than $50,000 may have to pay up to 35% of their health insurance premiums. The retiree contribution is deducted from their monthly pension checks.
In conclusion, NYS retirees do pay for their health insurance coverage. The amount they pay depends on factors such as their years of service, type of coverage, and income. While some retirees may be eligible for free coverage, many others have to pay for their health insurance premiums, which are deducted from their monthly pension checks.
