Illinois Launches Tax-Time Enrollment Program to Expand Health Coverage (Chicago, IL) – Illinois officials are encouraging uninsured residents to take advantage of a new “Tax Time Easy Enrollment” program that connects individuals and families to health insurance as they file their state taxes.
The initiative, announced by Get Covered Illinois, allows residents to indicate their need for health coverage directly on their IL-1040 tax form. By checking the health insurance box on line 42 and identifying which household members need coverage, filers can begin the enrollment process without any obligation to sign up.
With the state tax filing deadline approaching on April 15, officials say the program offers a timely opportunity for uninsured Illinoisans to explore their options, even after the standard open enrollment period has ended.
“By embedding health insurance enrollment into the annual tax filing process, Illinois is making it easier than ever for residents to take the first step toward getting covered,” said Get Covered Illinois Director Morgan Winters.
Information such as household size and income will be shared with Get Covered Illinois, which will then send a notice outlining potential eligibility for Medicaid or marketplace coverage, including possible premium tax credits. Those deemed eligible for marketplace plans will have 60 days from the date of the notice to enroll.
Officials emphasized that checking the box does not impact a filer’s tax return or require them to enroll in a plan.
In addition to the new program, Get Covered Illinois continues to offer special enrollment periods for residents who experience qualifying life events, such as losing coverage, getting married or having a child. This year, pregnancy has been added as a qualifying event, expanding access to coverage during critical moments.
“By recognizing pregnancy as a qualifying life event, we’re making it easier for Illinoisans to enroll in coverage when they need it most,” Winters said.
Get Covered Illinois, the state’s official health insurance marketplace, provides free assistance through certified navigators and licensed brokers to help residents compare plans and enroll in coverage.
More information is available at GetCoveredIllinois.gov or by calling the program’s hotline.
Illinois Launches Tax-Time Enrollment Program to Expand Health Coverage
