Open enrollment for 2027 health insurance in Illinois runs November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027. This year matters more than most: the extra federal subsidies are gone, many carriers filed rate increases, and the rules for paying back subsidies got stricter. Here is what changed and how to avoid a surprise bill.
Key 2027 dates
| Date | What it means |
|---|---|
| November 1, 2026 | Open enrollment begins on Get Covered Illinois and off-exchange with carriers |
| December 15, 2026 | Last day to enroll for coverage starting January 1, 2027 |
| January 15, 2027 | Open enrollment ends. Enrolling after the January 1 deadline usually means a February 1 start |
After open enrollment closes, you generally need a qualifying life event (losing other coverage, moving, marriage, a new baby) to enroll or change plans.
What changed for 2027
- The enhanced subsidies expired. The larger premium tax credits that ran from 2021 through 2025 ended on December 31, 2025, and Congress had not restored them as of October 2026. The 400% of poverty income limit is back, so some households who had help before will get none in 2027.
- No cap on paying subsidies back. Starting with 2026 coverage, if your advance credit was too large you repay the full difference when you file taxes. Accurate income estimates now matter a lot.
- Higher out-of-pocket limits. The most an ACA plan can make you pay in 2027 for in-network covered care is $12,000 for one person and $24,000 for a family.
- Fewer lawfully present immigrants qualify for credits. Eligibility narrows starting January 1, 2027. If this may affect your household, call us before you enroll.
- More plans work with an HSA. Bronze and catastrophic plans bought through the marketplace count as HSA-qualified plans starting in 2026. For 2027 the HSA limit is $4,500 for self-only coverage and $9,000 for family coverage (plus $1,000 at age 55 or older).
If you earn too much for a subsidy
Above 400% of the federal poverty level you will pay full price. You still have options: an HSA-qualified Bronze plan to lower your taxes, off-exchange plans, an employer ICHRA if you own a business, and supplemental coverage to fill a high deductible. See our guide to health insurance options without a subsidy.
How we help
- Side-by-side comparison of carriers, networks and drug lists in your county
- Subsidy estimate and an honest read on whether your income estimate is safe
- Enrollment on Get Covered Illinois or directly with the carrier, at no cost to you
- Help all year with claims, ID cards and mid-year changes
Get your 2027 quote before December 15, 2026
Same premium as enrolling yourself. A licensed agent reviews your options with you.
Get a Quote Call 312.726.6565 Have an Agent Call MeFrequently asked questions
When is open enrollment for 2027 health insurance in Illinois?
Open enrollment through Get Covered Illinois runs November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 15, 2026 for coverage that starts January 1, 2027. Deadlines can be extended, so check Get Covered Illinois or call us.
Did the extra ACA subsidies come back?
Not as of October 2026. The enhanced premium tax credits expired on December 31, 2025. For 2027 coverage, households above 400% of the federal poverty level do not qualify for a premium tax credit, and those below it are expected to pay a larger share of income than they did through 2025.
What happens if my income estimate is wrong?
Starting with 2026 coverage, there is no cap on paying back extra advance premium tax credits at tax time. If your income goes up during the year, report it right away so your credit is adjusted.
Can I keep my current plan?
Many people are renewed automatically, but carriers change networks, drugs and prices every year. Compare before December 15, 2026 so a renewal does not lock you into a worse fit.
Does it cost more to use an agent?
No. Licensed agents are paid by the carrier, and the premium is the same whether you enroll with us, on Get Covered Illinois, or with the carrier directly.
Illinois Health Agents is a licensed independent insurance agency. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Get Covered Illinois, the United States government, the federal Medicare program, or the Illinois Department of Insurance. Plan availability, benefits and premiums vary by county and carrier. Information on this page is general, current as of October 2026, and subject to change. Quotes are estimates and are not a contract or offer of insurance.