Big news for Illinois residents: The state is changing how you shop for health insurance. Starting with the 2026 plan year, Illinois is moving from the federal marketplace, HealthCare.gov, to its own State-Based Health Insurance Exchange.
This change means the state of Illinois will now manage its own online platform where people can compare and buy health insurance plans. While the rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) stay the same, the enrollment process and website will look different.
For individuals, families, and small businesses, this shift is important because it could bring more local support, better plan options, and a simpler shopping experience. However, many people are wondering:
- What exactly is this new state exchange?
- Why is Illinois making this move?
- Will my current plan change?
- How do I enroll when the new marketplace launches?
In this guide, we’ll answer these questions and explain everything you need to know about the State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange, including key dates, benefits, enrollment steps, and how it affects your 2025 health coverage.
What Is the State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange?
The State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange is a new state-run online marketplace where people can compare and purchase health insurance plans that meet Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements.
Unlike the current system that uses healthcare.gov, this state-based exchange will be fully managed by Illinois, giving residents a platform designed specifically for their needs.
Through this marketplace (similar to healthcare.gov), individuals and families can:
- Browse and compare approved health plans
- Check eligibility for financial assistance, like tax credits
- See options for Medicaid enrollment without leaving the portal
This shift is expected to make health plan shopping more straightforward and locally supported. Illinois aims to create a marketplace that offers clearer guidance, user-friendly tools, and better customer assistance during open enrollment.
For those who need expert help in navigating these changes, organizations like AHiX Marketplace will provide guidance to ensure residents choose the right plan when transitioning to this new system.
Why Illinois Is Moving to a State-Based Marketplace
Illinois decided to create its own health insurance exchange to gain more control and flexibility in how health coverage is offered to residents. Under the federal system, Illinois had to follow national processes and systems, which sometimes made it harder to respond to local needs.
With a state-based marketplace, Illinois can:
- Tailor enrollment tools to be easier for local users
- Design programs and subsidies that better match the state’s population
- Improve outreach and education to help more people understand their insurance options
Another reason for the switch is cost efficiency. By managing its own marketplace, Illinois can save on fees paid to the federal government and reinvest that money into improving the platform and support services.
Several other states have already made this transition successfully, leading to higher enrollment rates and better user experiences. Illinois is looking to achieve similar results by launching a system that’s simpler, more helpful, and more connected to state health programs.
For residents, this change is designed to make choosing a health plan less confusing and more affordable, without changing the protections and benefits provided by the ACA.
When Did the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace Start?
Illinois decided to create its own health insurance exchange to gain more control and flexibility in how health coverage is offered to residents. Under the federal system, Illinois had to follow national processes and systems, which sometimes made it harder to respond to local needs.
With a state-based marketplace, Illinois can:
- Tailor enrollment tools to be easier for local users
- Design programs and subsidies that better match the state’s population
- Improve outreach and education to help more people understand their insurance options
Another reason for the switch is cost efficiency. By managing its own marketplace, Illinois can save on fees paid to the federal government and reinvest that money into improving the platform and support services.
Several other states have already made this transition successfully, leading to higher enrollment rates and better user experiences. Illinois is looking to achieve similar results by launching a system that’s simpler, more helpful, and more connected to state health programs.
For residents, this change is designed to make choosing a health plan less confusing and more affordable, without changing the protections and benefits provided by the ACA.
Illinois residents used to sign up for coverage through HealthCare.gov. Starting in 2025, the state began transitioning to a system it controls. For the 2025 plan year, enrollment still happens on HealthCare.gov, but Illinois now manages more of the process behind the scenes.
Here’s what that means:
- In 2024, Open Enrollment for 2025 coverage took place on HealthCare.gov.
- On January 1, 2025, those health insurance plans officially started.
- In late 2025, Illinois will launch its fully state-run marketplace, Get Covered Illinois, where people will enroll directly for 2026 coverage.
Once Illinois’ new marketplace is live, the goal is to offer more support, easier tools, and better help for people choosing health plans making it less confusing and easier to find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
How the New Illinois Marketplace Works for Consumers
The new State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange works much like the old federal marketplace but is now managed by the state. This gives Illinois more control and allows residents to have a smoother, more personalized experience when shopping for health insurance.
1. Shopping for Plans
Consumers can visit the new Illinois marketplace website to view all available health insurance plans. Each plan shows details about coverage, monthly costs, and out-of-pocket expenses. The site also has tools to help you compare plans side by side, making it easier to see which one best fits your needs.
2. Financial Help and Eligibility
Just like before, you may qualify for tax credits or cost-sharing assistance that lowers your monthly premium or reduces your medical costs. The new state system automatically checks your eligibility when you apply. It also integrates with Medicaid, so you can find out if you qualify for free or low-cost health coverage without having to visit a different site.
3. Enrollment and Renewals
You can create an account, submit your application, and enroll in a health plan directly on the state platform. Renewing your coverage each year will also happen through this same website.
4. Support and Guidance
With the state running its own marketplace, local help is more accessible. Licensed agents, navigators, and organizations like AHiX Marketplace are available to guide you through the process. Whether you’re signing up for the first time or switching plans, AHiX can help you understand your options and complete your enrollment without stress.
This new system is designed to make finding, comparing, and signing up for health insurance simpler and faster, while still offering the same protections and benefits under the Affordable Care Act.
Benefits of the State-Based Marketplace
Moving to a state-based marketplace gives Illinois more flexibility to design a system that works better for its residents. Here’s how this change benefits people looking for health insurance:
1. Plans Designed for Illinois Residents
With the state in charge, insurance offerings can be tailored to meet the specific healthcare needs of Illinois communities. This means you may see more local insurers and plan options that better match what residents actually use and need.
2. Easier Application and Enrollment
The new website is built specifically for Illinois, making it easier to navigate compared to the national platform. Residents now have simplified forms, clearer instructions, and integrated tools that help check eligibility and compare plans without confusion.
3. Better Access to Financial Assistance
The state exchange automatically calculates premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions based on your income. This ensures that you won’t miss out on savings you qualify for.
4. Local Customer Support
Because Illinois runs its own system, it can provide more responsive, in-state customer service. Help is available through call centers, local offices, and certified enrollment counselors who understand Illinois-specific insurance needs.
These improvements aim to make finding affordable, reliable health insurance simpler and more personalized, while keeping all the protections of the Affordable Care Act in place.
Who Is Affected by the Illinois Marketplace Change
The shift to a state-based marketplace impacts different groups in unique ways. Here’s what individuals, families, and small businesses should know:
1. Individuals and Families
People buying their own health insurance will now use the Illinois marketplace instead of HealthCare.gov. The process is designed to be simpler, with tools to compare plans, check for savings, and see if Medicaid might be a better option. Current ACA protections remain unchanged, meaning essential benefits and coverage for pre-existing conditions are still included.
2. Small Businesses
Small business owners can explore group health insurance options through the new marketplace. The state system may offer more local insurers and flexible plans, making it easier to provide employee health benefits.
3. Medicaid Applicants
For those who may qualify for Medicaid, the state marketplace is now connected directly to Illinois’ Medicaid program. This allows for a single application process to determine eligibility for either private insurance with subsidies or free/low-cost Medicaid coverage.
Overall, this change is meant to give every group a more personalized, locally supported experience while keeping the same ACA protections and financial assistance.
Financial Help Available on the Illinois Marketplace
One of the biggest advantages of using the State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange is access to financial assistance. These savings are designed to make health insurance more affordable for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes.
1. Premium Tax Credits
If your household income falls within a certain range, you may receive tax credits that reduce your monthly health insurance payments. These credits are applied automatically when you enroll, so you don’t need to wait until tax season to see the benefit.
2. Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)
In addition to lower premiums, some people also qualify for reduced out-of-pocket costs, such as lower deductibles and copayments. CSRs are available if you choose a Silver-level health plan and meet income requirements.
3. Integrated Medicaid Screening
The new state marketplace checks if you’re eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) during the same application process. If you qualify, you’ll be directed to no-cost or very low-cost coverage.
These forms of assistance help make health insurance more affordable and accessible, ensuring that more Illinois residents can get the care they need without financial strain.
Steps to Enroll in the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace
Signing up for health insurance through the new State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange is straightforward. Here’s a simple guide to help you complete the process without confusion:
1. Create Your Account
Visit the official Illinois marketplace website and set up a secure account. You’ll need basic details like your name, date of birth, and contact information.
2. Provide Household Information
Fill out the application with information about your household members, income, and current health coverage. This helps the system calculate your eligibility for tax credits and other savings.
3. Compare Available Plans
Use the marketplace’s comparison tools to review different insurance plans. You can see monthly premiums, deductibles, provider networks, and benefits side by side to make an informed choice.
4. Check for Financial Assistance
The system automatically shows how much help you can get with premiums and out-of-pocket costs. This ensures you don’t miss out on any savings.
5. Select and Enroll
Choose the plan that best fits your needs and complete the enrollment. Once approved, you’ll receive your policy details and insurance card.
6. Get Expert Help if Needed
If you’re unsure at any step, certified agents and organizations like AHiX Marketplace can guide you through the process at no extra cost.
Conclusion
The launch of the State of Illinois Health Insurance Exchange has changed how residents find and sign up for health coverage. With a platform designed and managed by the state, Illinois now offers a more local, personalized way to compare plans, check eligibility for savings, and enroll in health insurance.
For individuals, families, and small businesses, this transition means better tools, easier navigation, and improved access to financial help. Whether you’re buying insurance for the first time or renewing an existing plan, the new marketplace makes the process simpler and more transparent.
If you’re still unsure which plan fits your needs or how to take full advantage of available tax credits, professional guidance can help. Licensed agents and enrollment specialists, including the team at AHiX Marketplace, are ready to walk you through the process and make sure you’re fully covered for the year ahead.
Taking a little time now to review your options ensures you and your family have affordable, reliable health insurance without missing any benefits you qualify for.
FAQs:
1. Will the new Illinois health insurance exchange affect employer-provided coverage?
No, the state marketplace only impacts people buying insurance on their own or small business plans. Employer-provided insurance remains separate and unaffected.
2. Can I keep my doctor when switching to the Illinois marketplace?
Yes, the new marketplace lets you check which doctors and hospitals are included in each health plan’s network before enrolling.
3. How do I report income changes after enrolling on the Illinois exchange?
You can log into your account on the marketplace website and update your income at any time. Reporting changes quickly helps you receive the correct financial assistance.
4. Does Illinois offer dental and vision plans on the new marketplace?
Yes, stand-alone dental and vision plans are available for both adults and children during open enrollment or when you first sign up.
5. What happens if I miss the open enrollment period?
You might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a major life change, such as losing other coverage or having a baby. If not, you’ll have to wait until the next enrollment window.
6. Are undocumented immigrants eligible for coverage on the Illinois exchange?
Undocumented immigrants cannot buy ACA health plans, but other state or community health programs may be available depending on income and circumstances.
7. How does the Illinois marketplace help people with chronic health conditions?
All plans sold on the marketplace must cover essential benefits, including treatment for chronic conditions, prescription drugs, and preventive care without discrimination.
8. Can college students in Illinois buy insurance through the state marketplace?
Yes, students can buy individual health plans through the exchange. Depending on income, they may qualify for tax credits or Medicaid coverage.
9. Is mental health care covered under Illinois marketplace plans?
Yes, mental health and substance use disorder services are essential benefits included in all ACA-compliant marketplace plans.
10. How can I get free help with the enrollment process?
Illinois provides certified navigators, local community organizations, and licensed agents (such as those at AHiX Marketplace) who can assist you with applications and plan selection at no cost.
