Chicago, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – Illinois residents now have more time to sign up for health insurance after Get Covered Illinois announced Monday it is extending the open enrollment deadline to Jan. 31.

The 16-day extension allows consumers additional time to shop for and enroll in coverage through the state’s official health insurance marketplace, with plans selected by the new deadline taking effect Feb. 1, 2026.

State officials said the decision comes amid strong enrollment activity and growing interest in comparing plans for affordability. Morgan Winters, director of Get Covered Illinois, said residents are increasingly taking advantage of the marketplace to find coverage that fits their needs and budgets.

“As a state-based marketplace, we have the authority to offer this extension and the resources to support customers as they explore their options,” Winters said.

Illinois has invested nearly $7 million in navigator grants and built a statewide network of certified brokers to help residents with the enrollment process. Those services — which include assistance with applications and plan recommendations — are provided at no cost.

More than 140 navigators and about 9,000 brokers are available statewide, according to Get Covered Illinois. Ezra Watland, the marketplace’s chief operating officer, encouraged residents who remain uninsured or who have not yet compared plans to use the extra time to seek help.

“Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking for better options, a broker or navigator can walk you through the process,” Watland said.

Residents can find local assistance through the Get Covered Illinois online directory, apply at GetCoveredIllinois.gov, or call the Customer Assistance Center at 1-866-311-1119 (TTY: 711). Extended call center hours will be offered through the Jan. 31 deadline.

Get Covered Illinois is a division of the Illinois Department of Insurance and serves as the state’s Affordable Care Act marketplace, offering enrollment help in multiple languages statewide.