Illinois ACA FAQs

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Common Affordable Care Act (ACA) FAQ's

Yes, the ACA allows young adults to stay on their parents’ health insurance plans until they turn 26, even if they are married, not living with their parents, or financially independent.

Yes, the ACA expanded Medicaid eligibility in participating states to cover more low-income adults. However, not all states chose to expand Medicaid, so eligibility varies depending on where you live.

ACA plans are required to cover essential health benefits, including preventive services, prescription drugs, emergency services, hospitalization, mental health services, and more. The specifics can vary based on the plan’s metal tier (bronze, silver, gold, platinum)

Yes, small businesses can use the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace to offer health insurance options to their employees. However, SHOP enrollment is done directly through insurance companies or brokers.

As of my last update in September 2021, the ACA remained largely intact, though certain provisions have been altered or eliminated through legislative and executive actions. It’s essential to check the most recent updates regarding the status of the ACA.

No, the penalty for not having health insurance, known as the individual mandate penalty, was effectively eliminated starting in 2019. There is no longer a federal penalty for being uninsured.

No, the ACA prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage or charging higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions. This provision ensures access to coverage for individuals with prior health issues.

Yes, the ACA provides subsidies (premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions) based on income to help lower-income individuals and families afford health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Yes, you can. The ACA created the Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange), where individuals and families can compare and purchase health insurance plans. Open enrollment periods occur annually, during which you can enroll, renew, or change plans.