BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson is encouraging any Illinois resident who is uninsured or underinsured to visit the Affordable Care Act Marketplace during the open enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1 to Dec.15.

“Quality health insurance is a basic human right that no one should have to go without,” Johnson said. “Thankfully, people who don’t have employer-sponsored plans or don’t qualify for Medicaid still have an option. I encourage anyone in need to visit the ACA Marketplace immediately.”

This year, Illinoisans will be able to choose from 179 plans from eight insurance providers. There are also tax credits available to help lower-income residents reduce their monthly payments and find affordable coverage.

Last year, more than 240,000 people received tax credits, and after credits were applied, the average monthly payment was $153.

There are three tiers of coverage to choose from that balance coverage and cost: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Anyone who is already covered under an ACA plan will automatically be enrolled in the same or a similar plan if they don’t make a different selection.

“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t just affected people’s health, it’s affected their careers and therefore their health care benefits,” Johnson said. “People who have experienced loss of work can visit the marketplace even after the open enrollment period has ended.”

To learn more or select a plan, Illinois residents can visit https://getcoveredillinois.gov.