Illinois residents can now shop for health insurance coverage for 2027 as the annual Get Covered Illinois open enrollment period gets underway.
The state’s official health insurance marketplace is offering residents an opportunity to compare plans, apply for financial assistance and enroll in or renew coverage. Open enrollment continues through January 15, 2027.
Illinois Department of Insurance Director Ann Gillespie says the marketplace is designed to help residents understand their options and make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.
“Whether enrolling for the first time or insured for years, people deserve to understand their options and feel confident in their choice,” Gillespie said.
Now in its second year as a state-based marketplace, Get Covered Illinois allows consumers to compare monthly premiums, deductibles, prescription drug coverage and participating doctors and hospitals before applying.
State officials say consumers who compared plans during last year’s enrollment period saved an average of $150 per month on premiums.
Get Covered Illinois Director Morgan Winters encourages returning customers to review their coverage rather than automatically renewing their existing plans.
“Do not assume last year’s plan is still the best fit,” Winters said, adding that licensed brokers are available to help residents compare plans at no cost.
The enrollment period comes as changes to federal healthcare laws affect eligibility for Medicaid and financial assistance through the marketplace.
According to state officials, more than 9,000 lawfully present immigrants recently lost Medicaid coverage because of federal eligibility changes. Get Covered Illinois has established a special enrollment period for affected individuals, with retroactive coverage available through December 31st. Federal premium tax credit eligibility for that group is scheduled to end January 1st.
State officials are contacting affected residents and encouraging them to review their notices and seek assistance.
Get Covered Illinois also offers free enrollment assistance through certified navigators, who can help residents apply for coverage in person, online or by telephone. Assistance is available in multiple languages.
Residents should keep two important enrollment deadlines in mind:
– December 15, 2026: Last day to enroll for coverage beginning January 1, 2027.
– January 15, 2027: Final day of open enrollment, with coverage beginning February 1st for those enrolling after December 15th.
Get Covered Illinois is also the state’s official marketplace for applying for federal premium tax credits that can help reduce monthly insurance costs.
Illinois residents can compare plans, enroll in coverage or find free assistance by visiting GetCoveredIllinois.gov or calling 1-866-311-1119. TTY assistance is available by dialing 711.
Additional information about federal healthcare eligibility changes is available at GetCoveredIllinois.gov/MarketplaceChanges