Illinois Medicaid Income Limits 2026: Who Qualifies
Who can get Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois) in 2026, the income limits in dollars, and how to apply — in plain English.
✓ Every figure on this page verified against the primary government source as of July 16, 2026.
Illinois expanded Medicaid, so adults qualify for Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois) in 2026 with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level — about $1,835 per month for a single person and $3,795 for a family of four, with no asset test.
Key takeaways
- Qualify as an adult with income up to $1,835/month (1 person) or $3,795 (family of 4) — 138% FPL.
- Skip the asset test — MAGI Medicaid counts income only, not savings.
- Enroll any time — Medicaid has no open-enrollment window.
- Apply for kids regardless: children's limits run far higher than 138% FPL.
- Watch for the OBBBA work rules — 80 hours/month requirements phase in for expansion adults through Dec 31, 2026.
Illinois adult income limits by household size (2026)
| Household size | Monthly limit (138% FPL) | Annual limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,835 | $22,020 |
| 2 | $2,489 | $29,868 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,704 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,448 | $53,376 |
| 6 | $5,101 | $61,212 |
| 7 | $5,755 | $69,060 |
| 8 | $6,408 | $76,896 |
Who qualifies for Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois)
Illinois expanded Medicaid: adults qualify up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Children qualify through All Kids at significantly higher income levels.
Seniors (65+) and people with disabilities qualify through separate, non-MAGI pathways — typically tied to the SSI rate of $994/month with a resource limit around $2,000 — and low-income Medicare beneficiaries can get help with premiums through Medicare Savings Programs.
How Medicaid interacts with other benefits
- SSI: an SSI award brings Medicaid automatically or via a streamlined process in Illinois.
- SNAP: separate tests, one application — the same portal (abe.illinois.gov) handles both.
- Marketplace: above 138% FPL, HealthCare.gov subsidies take over.
- Medicare: dual-eligible seniors get premium and cost-sharing help through Medicaid.
Where to apply
Apply through Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) — online at abe.illinois.gov or by phone at 800-843-6154. You can also apply through HealthCare.gov — Medicaid-eligible applications are forwarded to the state automatically.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Medicaid income limit in Illinois for 2026?
Adults qualify for Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois) with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level: about $1,835 per month for one person and $3,795 for a family of four in 2026.
Does Illinois Medicaid have an asset test?
Not for MAGI groups — adults under 138% FPL, children, and pregnant women face no asset limit. Asset limits (commonly $2,000 for an individual) still apply to aged/blind/disabled and long-term-care Medicaid.
Can children get Medicaid in Illinois if parents earn too much?
Children qualify through All Kids at significantly higher income levels. There's no harm in applying — children are evaluated separately from adults.
Does SSI qualify me for Medicaid in Illinois?
Yes — SSI recipients ($994/month federal rate in 2026) get Medicaid automatically or via a streamlined process in Illinois.
Is there an enrollment deadline for Medicaid in Illinois?
No. Medicaid enrollment is open year-round — you can apply any month, and coverage can start retroactively up to 3 months before your application in many cases.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Illinois?
Apply online at abe.illinois.gov, by phone at 800-843-6154, or through HealthCare.gov, which forwards Medicaid-eligible applications to the state.