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INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY

Open Enrollment Tips

Open Enrollment happens every year from Nov. 1 until Jan. 15. Looking for a 2025 health insurance plan after Open Enrollment's ended? Learn if you can enroll during Special Enrollment.

Check If You Qualify
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Importance of Coverage

Why Is It Important to Get Health Insurance During Open Enrollment?

The Open Enrollment Period happens once a year, ever year. It begins Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15. Anyone can update or pick a new plan during this time. Having health insurance:

  • Helps cover costs when you get health care, from check-ups to emergencies
  • Lets you stay up-to-date on preventive care for a healthier future
  • Keeps your children and spouse covered if you add them to your plan

If you miss the Open Enrollment deadline, you'll have to wait until the next year to enroll unless you go through a life change that allows you to apply for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois coverage during Special Enrollment.

How To Enroll

How to Get a BCBSIL Plan During Open Enrollment

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RESEARCH

Research Your Available Health Insurance Plans

BCBSIL offers the below plans depending on where you live:

UNDERSTAND BENEFITS

Assess Your Health Insurance Needs and Compare Plans

NEXT STEPS

What To Do After Applying

Make your first payment and set up Auto Bill Pay: Your coverage won't begin until your first premium's paid. Make your premium payment online and set up Auto Bill Pay to pay your monthly bills easily and on-time.

Make a payment

Start using your member resources: Review your benefits, understand when you'll start receiving your member materials and sign up for your member account.

Find out what's next after applying

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SPECIAL ENROLLMENT

Need a Plan After Open Enrollment?

If you've gone through a big life change, you might be able to enroll through the Special Enrollment Period.

Learn if your life event qualifies, how long you have to apply and what your next steps are during Special Enrollment.

Learn More