Medicaid and CHIP, explained
Low-cost or free coverage for lower incomes, and for children at higher incomes than adults. The rules depend on your state.
Last checked October 13, 2026 · Written by licensed advisors · Sources are numbered and listed under Notes and sources
Who may qualify
In states that expanded Medicaid, including Illinois, many adults qualify with income up to about 1.38× the poverty line. Some states did not expand Medicaid, and their rules are stricter.
Children can qualify for Medicaid or CHIP at higher incomes than adults. In Illinois the program is called All Kids.1
Losing Medicaid or CHIP
If you lose Medicaid or CHIP, HealthCare.gov states and Illinois give you up to 90 days from the date that coverage ends to enroll in a Marketplace plan, and you can start up to 60 days before.2
- Up to 60 days beforeYou can start enrolling (key step)
- Coverage endsThe 90 days count from this date
- Up to 90 days afterYour window closes
What to do: Call us when the notice arrives, not after coverage ends.
Illinois in 2027
People who aren’t eligible for Illinois Medicaid because they didn’t meet the new work, education or community-service requirements can’t get Marketplace tax credits. People with an exemption aren’t affected by this rule. The rule comes from the federal law H.R. 1 (Public Law 119-21, 2025).3
Related guides
Obamacare Hotline and/or Medicare Po Polsku are private companies not affiliated with any local, state, or federal government agency. This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice.