Health insurance can do more than just help with doctor visits. It can protect your finances, give you peace of mind, and help you stay healthier over time. If you qualify for Medicaid, it may even help with past medical bills from the last 90 days.
Where you can get health insurance
Insurance through your job
Many jobs offer health insurance through a group plan. Your employer usually pays most of the monthly cost.
These plans have set networks and benefits.
Government insurance programs
- Medicaid: This program gives free or low-cost coverage for people with low income. This includes adults, children, pregnant people, older individuals, and people with disabilities.
- Medicaid has retroactive coverage. This means that, if approved, your coverage begins 90 days before your application date.
- You can apply at any time. You can check your eligibility online or call 800-843-6154 for the Illinois Application Benefits Eligibility (ABE) hotline.
- Medicare: This program is for people who are age 65 or older, or under 65 with certain disabilities.
Marketplace insurance
You can buy health insurance through GetCoveredIllinois.gov, which connects to HealthCare.gov. These plans cover doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and preventive care. You cannot be denied because of a pre-existing condition.
💡Tip: Most people qualify for help paying their monthly premiums for Marketplace insurance.
How to get insurance on the Marketplace
What to look for when shopping on the Marketplace
When you compare plans, look at:
- Premiums, the amount you pay each month,
- Deductibles, what you pay before the plan starts to pay,
- Copays and coinsurance, your share of costs per visit, test, or medicine,
- Out-of-pocket maximum, the most you will pay in a year for covered care,
- Network coverage, which doctors and hospitals are included in the plan, and
- Financial help, which may lower your monthly cost or your costs for care. This help is based on income.
When you can enroll
- Open Enrollment is from November 1 to January 15 each year.
- Special Enrollment Periods are for major life changes. You may qualify if you lose a job, move, or add a family member.
Need help?
Free help is available in many languages. You can get help online, by phone, or in person.
Call (866) 311-1119 or visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov to:
- Compare plans,
- Check if you qualify for financial help, and
- Get answers to your questions.
Bottom line
- Choose employer insurance if it is available.
- Medicaid may be free or low-cost if you qualify. Check your eligibility online or call 800-843-6154 for the Illinois Application Benefits Eligibility (ABE) hotline.
- Marketplace plans offer full coverage and financial help. Visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov to learn more and get help finding a plan that fits your needs and budget.