How To — Buy Health Insurance In Illinois

: Outside of these dates, you can only buy insurance if you experience a "qualifying life event," such as losing other health coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving. Public Assistance: Medicaid and All Kids

: For the 2026 plan year, a special extension allowed residents to enroll as late as January 31 for coverage beginning February 1. how to buy health insurance in illinois

The primary way to buy individual or family health insurance in Illinois is through Get Covered Illinois , the state’s official marketplace. This is the only platform where you can apply for and receive federal tax credits to lower your monthly premiums. : : Outside of these dates, you can only

: Typically runs from November 1 through January 15 . This is the only platform where you can

: You must enroll by January 15 .

Purchasing health insurance in Illinois has recently shifted to a state-managed model, moving away from the federal HealthCare.gov platform. Whether you are seeking a private plan with financial subsidies or a public program like Medicaid, the process now centers on the official state marketplace.

For residents with lower incomes, Illinois offers public programs that accept applications year-round. About the marketplace - Get Covered Illinois