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Dependent Eligibility Verification Process
The City of New York is conducting a Dependent Eligibility Verification Audit to confirm that all dependents enrolled in the City Health Benefits Program meet eligibility requirements.
If you have dependents on your health plan, action will be required on your part when you receive your notification packet in the mail.
How will it work?
The City has partnered with an independent firm, Health Management Systems, Inc. (HMS), to verify that all dependents enrolled in the NYC Health Benefits Program meet the City’s eligibility requirements for City health insurance benefit coverage (see Summary Program Description).
What is the process?
You will receive a dependent eligibility verification notification letter from HMS asking you to verify that your covered dependent(s) are eligible for City health coverage. The letter will detail the required documents that you will need to submit to verify your covered dependent(s) and how to submit them to HMS.
What You Should Do Now
- Verify your address: Ensure your current mailing address is up to date with your employer (or health plan, if you are retired) so your letter reaches you.
- Review requirements: Check the Required Documents List and FAQ now to see what you will need (such as tax returns with financial details redacted, marriage certificates, or birth certificates).
When will I receive my letter from HMS?
Due to the size of the City's eligible population, the Dependent Eligibility Verification notification letter mailings will be staggered, so you may not receive a letter from HMS for several months.
The table below shows approximate dates that mailings will start. Check this website regularly for updates and to see when your mailing may have gone out.
| Group | Category | Employer | Inital Letter Mailing Date On or About* |
| Group 1A | Employees | NYCAPS agencies: Last Name A-H | 10/9/2026 |
| Group 1B | Employees | NYCAPS agencies: Last Name I-R |
11/20/2026 |
| Group 2A | Employees |
NYCAPS Agencies: Last Name S-Z Non-NYCAPS Agencies: H+H, SCA, CUNY Senior Colleges, Cultural Institutions, Public Libraries and Charter Schools, MTA, FIT |
12/28/2026 |
| Group 2B | Pre-Medicare Retirees | All | 2/8/2027 |
| Group 3A | Medicare Retirees |
Retirees: Last Name A-L |
3/22/2027 |
| Group 3B | Medicare Retirees |
Retirees: Last Name M-Z | 5/3/2027 |
*Please allow up to 5 business days for mail to arrive. Dates may be subject to change.
Note: NYCAPS Agencies include all City payrolls, including DOE and NYCHA.
Step-by-Step Instructions Once Your Letter Arrives
- Check your mail: Look for the official notification letter from HMS containing your Verification Form.
- Gather your documents: Collect the requested documents listed in your letter.
- Submit on time: Complete and return the Verification Form and documents to HMS by the deadline listed in your letter.
Important: Failure to submit proof of eligibility will result in the termination of your dependent’s City health insurance coverage.
How will I know I have completed the process?
- HMS will mail you a confirmation postcard once your dependent(s) have been verified
- Check the HMS VerifyOS portal to confirm your dependent(s) have been verified
Links to Communications
Dependent Eligibility Verification Process Notification Letter - Sample