Get Covered Illinois has announced that Illinois residents now have until December 31st to enroll in health insurance coverage that will begin January 1st. State officials say the deadline extension comes at a critical time as Illinois works to ensure residents maintain access to quality, affordable health coverage amid changes at the federal level. This marks the first Open Enrollment Period for Get Covered Illinois as a fully state-based marketplace, operating independently from the federal HealthCare.gov system.
Officials say local control has already allowed the state to take more consumer-focused actions.
“Shifting to a state-based marketplace has given Illinois the authority and flexibility to make decisions that put our residents first,” said Morgan Winters, Director of Get Covered Illinois. “This enrollment deadline extension is exactly the kind of customer-focused action that we could not take as a federally facilitated marketplace.”
The extension is intended to give Illinoisans additional time to compare plans, receive enrollment assistance, and select coverage that best fits their healthcare needs and budget. The added time is especially important as residents face rising premiums, fewer plan options in some areas, and uncertainty surrounding federal healthcare policy. Officials say many consumers may need to switch plans or adjust coverage levels this year. All plans offered through Get Covered Illinois include essential health benefits such as prescription drug coverage, mental health services, emergency care, pediatric services, and free preventive care. To have coverage begin January 1, residents must enroll by December 31st. Plans and financial assistance options can be reviewed online at GetCoveredIllinois.gov.
Free enrollment assistance is available statewide, including in-person help, phone support, and guidance from certified navigators or licensed brokers. The Get Covered Illinois Customer Assistance Center offers services in more than 250 languages and extended hours during open enrollment. Assistance is available by calling 1-866-311-1119 (TTY: 711).
Get Covered Illinois is the state’s official health insurance marketplace and operates under the Illinois Department of Insurance.