For Immediate Release – November 1, 2026
The 2027 Open Enrollment Period Begins on Nov. 1
Amid federal changes, Get Covered Illinois will continue to offer affordable, high-quality health coverage
CHICAGO — Get Covered Illinois will kick off the 2027 annual open enrollment period on November 1, helping Illinoisans compare plans, apply for financial help and enroll in coverage. With federal changes signed into law by President Trump affecting access to affordable health insurance, the state’s official marketplace is committed to connecting Illinoisans to high-quality, affordable health coverage.
“Whether enrolling for the first time or insured for years, people deserve to understand their options and feel confident in their choice,” said Ann Gillespie, Director of the Illinois Department of Insurance. “That’s why having a marketplace dedicated to Illinoisans matters. We know the communities we serve, the challenges they face and the importance of having reliable health coverage. Get Covered Illinois gives residents a trusted place to make informed decisions about their coverage.”
Open enrollment runs through January 15, 2027, giving residents the opportunity to enroll in, renew or change their health insurance. In its second year as a state-based marketplace, Get Covered Illinois continues to deliver on its “Here to Help” mission by putting Illinoisans first. The marketplace connects residents to coverage for the care they need, from routine checkups to ongoing treatment.
One way Illinoisans can make the most of open enrollment is by comparing plans to find coverage that meets their needs and budget. Last year, people who shopped and compared plans saved an average of $150 a month on their premium. With plans and prices changing each year, it’s important to review all options. At GetCoveredIllinois.gov, Illinoisans can compare plans and estimated costs before creating an account or applying. The website makes it easy to view premiums and deductibles, check prescription coverage and see whether preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network. Get Covered Illinois is also the only place to apply for federal tax credits that lower the cost of coverage.
“The most important step returning customers can take is to review and compare the new plans available to them,” said Morgan Winters, Director of Get Covered Illinois. “Do not assume last year’s plan is still the best fit. Our licensed brokers can help you compare plans and prices and recommend a plan that fits your needs, at no cost to you. Open enrollment is also the time to make sure the information on your application is up to date to ensure you get the correct financial help.”
Federal changes under H.R. 1 will affect some Illinoisans’ Medicaid and marketplace eligibility. Last month, more than 9,000 lawfully present immigrants were kicked off Medicaid. To help them avoid a gap in health insurance, Get Covered Illinois launched a special enrollment period offering retroactive coverage through December 31. Access to premium tax credits for this group will end on January 1.
Get Covered Illinois is contacting impacted customers and encouraging them to carefully read their notices and reach out for help if they need it. More information about these federal changes and when they take effect is available at GetCoveredIllinois.gov/MarketplaceChanges.
Get Covered Illinois certified navigators—trained professionals who provide free enrollment assistance—can guide Illinoisans through the application process, with support available in multiple languages. Navigators are available to meet in person, online or over the phone in many communities across the state. Navigators can also connect residents who are no longer eligible for Medicaid or marketplace financial help to free or low-cost health care in their community.
The annual Get Covered Illinois open enrollment period ends on January 15, 2027. Illinoisans who enroll by December 15 will have coverage starting January 1, 2027. Those who enroll by January 15 will have coverage starting February 1, 2027. To compare plans, enroll or find free help, visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov or call 1-866-311-1119 (TTY: 711).
