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If you were automatically enrolled in a 2026 health plan through Get Covered Illinois, you may qualify for a limited-time Special Enrollment Period. Learn more

Life changes and special enrollment

If you experience a qualifying life event such as loss of health coverage, marriage or change of address, you may be eligible to enroll in health insurance now during a special enrollment period.

Special enrollment period

When open enrollment is over, certain life events may qualify you for a special enrollment period. See a full list of qualifying life events.

If you are eligible for a special enrollment period, Get Covered Illinois can help you get health insurance within 60 days of the event. Some life events require proof to qualify for a special enrollment period. To learn more about your eligibility, contact us.

There are four basic types of qualifying life events.

Loss of health coverage

Changes in household size

  • Getting married or divorced
  • Having a baby or adopting a child 
  • Death in the family 

Changes in residence

  • A permanent move from another state into Illinois, or within Illinois if the move is to a different service area.
  • A student moving to or from the place they attend school

Other qualifying events

  • Changes in your income that affect the coverage you qualify for 
  • Becoming a U.S. citizen
  • Leaving incarceration (jail or prison)
  • AmeriCorps members starting or ending their service 
  • Pregnancy
  • Full list of qualifying life events

Lost Medicaid or All Kids coverage?

If you no longer qualify for Medicaid or All Kids, you may for qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to get a plan through Get Covered Illinois. You usually have 90 days to enroll in a new plan. If you have any questions about your Medicaid coverage, go to your ABE account or call 1-800-843-6154.

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