Illinois Medicaid in Illinois

Illinois Medicaid is Illinois's Medicaid program — free or low-cost health coverage for low-income residents. It is administered by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).

Check if I qualify for Medicaid in Illinois →
✅ Illinois expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Adults 19–64 earning up to 138% FPL (about $21,597/year for a single person) qualify for Illinois Medicaid.

Who qualifies for Illinois Medicaid?

Illinois covers adults 19–64 with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Key qualifying groups include:

  • Adults (19–64): Income up to 138% FPL (~$21,597/year single; ~$44,367/year family of 4)
  • Children: Generally covered at higher income levels
  • Pregnant women: Higher income limits apply
  • Seniors and people with disabilities: SSI recipients qualify automatically

Illinois expanded Medicaid in 2014. The state also covers DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients who would otherwise be excluded from federal Medicaid. Managed care through IlliniCare, Meridian, and Molina plans.

How to apply for Illinois Medicaid

You can apply through Illinois's official portal, by phone, by mail, or in person at your local Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) office.

  • Online: Apply at ABE.illinois.gov →
  • Processing time: Most applications are processed within 45 days (90 days for disability-based applications)
  • Coverage start: If approved, coverage typically begins the first day of the month you applied
  • Renewal: Medicaid eligibility is reviewed annually — respond to renewal notices to avoid losing coverage

What does Illinois Medicaid cover?

Medicaid in Illinois covers a comprehensive set of services, including:

  • Doctor visits and preventive care
  • Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
  • Emergency services
  • Mental health and substance use treatment
  • Prescription drugs
  • Lab tests and X-rays
  • Prenatal care and delivery
  • Long-term care (nursing home and home-based services)

Most services are covered at no cost or very low cost. Some plans may charge small copays for non-emergency services.

What documents do I need?

  • Proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
  • Proof of Illinois residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letter)
  • Social Security numbers for all household members applying
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status

Common questions about Illinois Medicaid

Can I keep my doctor on Illinois Medicaid?

Illinois Medicaid is often provided through managed care plans. When you enroll, you will choose a plan and a primary care provider. If your current doctor accepts Illinois Medicaid, you can stay with them. Call your doctor's office to confirm before enrolling in a plan.

What if my income changes?

Report income changes to Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) within 10–30 days. If your income rises above the limit, you may qualify for marketplace coverage with subsidies instead — coverage is typically available without a gap.

Can I have both Medicaid and private insurance?

Yes. If you have employer coverage, Illinois Medicaid can act as secondary insurance, covering costs your primary insurance doesn't pay. This is called "dual coverage" and can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

Related programs to check

  • SNAP in Illinois — monthly food benefits; many Medicaid households qualify automatically
  • CHIP — low-cost health coverage for children in families above Medicaid limits
  • EITC in Illinois — tax credit worth up to $8,000+ for working families
  • Medicaid national overview — general rules and ACA expansion details

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