CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) is encouraging uninsured and underinsured Illinoisans to visit the Affordable Care Act Marketplace during the open enrollment period, which runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15.

“Everyone needs and deserves health insurance,” Villanueva said. “This is the time of year when you can go to the ACA Marketplace and find or change insurance if you don’t have an employer-sponsored plan and you don’t qualify for Medicaid.”

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.

“In this difficult time, I also want to remind everyone that if you experience a life-changing event, such as an income loss, a marriage, or a major move, you can always visit the marketplace – even if the open enrollment period has closed,” Villanueva said. “It’s critical to protect your health by getting or staying insured during this public health crisis.”

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