ACA Health Insurance in Illinois: Marketplace Plans & Subsidies
Residents of Illinois can access affordable health insurance through Get Covered Illinois. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most families qualify for subsidies that significantly lower monthly premiums.
📍 Illinois Health Insurance Fast Facts
How Health Plans Work in Illinois
When you shop on Get Covered Illinois, you'll see plans organized by "Metal Levels" (Bronze, Silver, Gold). In Illinois, specific options will vary by your zip code. For example, a Silver plan in Chicago might be offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, while a similar plan in a rural county might be from a different provider.
Key takeaway for Illinois residents: Don't just look at the premium. Check the provider network to ensure your preferred doctors and local hospitals are covered.
🏥Medicaid (HFS) (Medicaid)
Illinois expanded Medicaid in 2014, covering adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level through the Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) department. Illinois Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, vision, and mental health services. The state uses managed care organizations to coordinate most Medicaid benefits.
💡Insurance Shopping Tips for Illinois
- •Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois has the most extensive provider network statewide
- •Oscar Health offers competitive pricing and tech-forward experience in the Chicago metro
- •Ambetter (Centene) often has the lowest-premium options for price-conscious shoppers
- •Illinois prohibits insurers from considering gender when setting premiums
- •Get Covered Illinois offers in-person assistance through certified navigators statewide
🏛️Unique Healthcare Programs in Illinois
All Kids: Covers children up to 300% FPL with comprehensive benefits
Family Health Plan: Coverage for parents with incomes up to 138% FPL
Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program: Free screenings and treatment
Immigrant Health Coverage: Illinois covers some immigrant populations not eligible for federal Medicaid
Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors: Coverage for qualifying seniors regardless of immigration status
Important note
Marketplace (ACA) eligibility and premium tax credits depend on your household size, income, ages, ZIP code, and the plan you choose. Rules and plan pricing can change over time.
Use this page to understand the basics for Illinois. For your exact eligibility and final monthly premium, confirm on the official marketplace.
Important Note for Illinois
Illinois uses Get Covered Illinois marketplace. Medicaid expansion state with robust programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do ACA subsidies work in Illinois?
Premium tax credits can reduce monthly premiums for Marketplace plans. Eligibility and amounts depend on household size, income, ages, ZIP code, and plan selection. Confirm specific results on the official marketplace.
Is "Get Covered Illinois" the official site for Illinois?
Yes, for Illinois, you should use **Get Covered Illinois** to apply for coverage and subsidies. Using third-party sites might result in extra fees or missing out on tax credits.
When is Open Enrollment?
In most states, Open Enrollment typically runs from Nov 1 to Jan 15. Some state marketplaces may have different deadlines.
What carriers offer plans in my area?
Major carriers in Illinois often include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Ambetter, Cigna. Availability varies by ZIP code, so residents in Chicago might have different options than those in Aurora.
Do ACA plans cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes. ACA-compliant plans cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre-existing conditions like diabetes, cancer, or pregnancy.
Sources & Disclaimer
Last Updated: January 2026
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only. Actual costs vary based on individual circumstances, location, age, plan selection, and other factors. Always verify current information with official sources or licensed professionals. This site does not sell insurance or provide medical advice and is not affiliated with any insurance company or healthcare provider.