Medical marijuana has been legal in New York for several years now, but many people are still unsure about the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card and how much it will cost. In this blog post, we will break down the steps to getting a medical marijuana card in NY and go over the costs associated with the process. So, let's dive in!
In order to obtain a medical marijuana card in NY, you must have a qualifying medical condition. These conditions include:
If you have one of these conditions, you may be eligible for a medical marijuana card in NY.
The next step is to find a certified physician who can evaluate your condition and recommend medical marijuana as a treatment option. In NY, you cannot just go to any doctor for a medical marijuana recommendation. The physician must be registered with the NY Department of Health and have completed a course on medical marijuana.
When searching for a certified physician, it is important to do your research and find one that is reputable and knowledgeable about medical marijuana. You can use the NY Department of Health's website to search for registered physicians in your area.
Once you have received a recommendation from a certified physician, you will need to register with the NY Department of Health. This can be done online through their website or by mail. The registration process includes providing personal information, proof of identity, and a photo of yourself.
There is a $50 fee for registering with the NY Department of Health, which is valid for one year. This fee can be paid online with a credit or debit card.
After registering with the NY Department of Health, you will need to submit an application for a medical marijuana card. This can also be done online or by mail. The application fee is $50, and it must be paid with a credit or debit card. This fee covers the cost of processing your application.
It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, so make sure you have all the necessary documents and information before submitting your application.
Once you have received your medical marijuana card, you can then purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary in NY. The cost of the medical marijuana itself will vary depending on the type and amount purchased, but there are also additional fees associated with purchasing from a dispensary.
First, there is a 7% sales tax on medical marijuana in NY. This tax is included in the price of the product, so you will not have to pay it separately.
Second, there is a $10 dispensing fee for each transaction. This fee covers the cost of packaging, labeling, and handling the medical marijuana. This fee is also included in the price of the product.
Your medical marijuana card is valid for one year, after which you will need to renew it in order to continue purchasing medical marijuana legally. The renewal fee is $50, and it must be paid online with a credit or debit card. It is important to renew your card at least 30 days before it expires to avoid any lapses in your ability to purchase medical marijuana.
In summary, the total cost of obtaining and maintaining a medical marijuana card in NY is approximately $210. This includes the registration fee, application fee, and renewal fee, as well as the fees associated with purchasing medical marijuana from a dispensary. While this may seem like a significant amount, the relief and benefits that medical marijuana can provide for those with qualifying medical conditions can be invaluable.
We hope this blog post has helped answer any questions you may have had about the costs of a medical marijuana card in NY. Remember to always do your research and consult with a certified physician before beginning the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card. Thank you for reading!
You only pay if you're approved!