Health·7 min read

Illinois ACA Marketplace 2026: Subsidies, Plans, and Open Enrollment

Illinois transitions to a state-based marketplace in 2026. Here's what the change means for premium subsidies and your enrollment.

Key Takeaways

1
Illinois operates 'Get Covered Illinois' as a state-based exchange (replacing HealthCare.gov for Illinois enrollment).
2
Open Enrollment runs November 1 through January 15 each year.
3
Most households earning under 400% FPL still qualify for premium tax credits.
4
An independent broker quotes both ACA marketplace and off-marketplace private plans at no cost.

Get Covered Illinois — the state exchange

Illinois moved to a fully state-based marketplace, called Get Covered Illinois. You'll enroll at GetCovered.Illinois.gov rather than HealthCare.gov, but the underlying ACA rules — essential benefits, pre-existing condition coverage, and premium subsidies — are identical.

Carriers participating in Illinois include Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare's Oscar partnership, Ambetter, and others. Plan availability varies by county.

Premium subsidies in 2026

Premium tax credits (the federal subsidy that reduces your monthly premium) are still available based on household income and family size. The American Rescue Plan / Inflation Reduction Act enhancements remain in effect through 2025; check current rules at enrollment.

A typical Cook County family of four earning $80K can see a Silver plan premium drop from ~$1,500/month list to under $500/month after subsidies.

Open Enrollment dates

November 1 – January 15. Enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage; enroll December 16 – January 15 for February 1 coverage. Outside this window, you need a Special Enrollment Period (job loss, marriage, birth, etc.).

Source: Get Covered Illinois ↗

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