Tips for a smooth health insurance enrollment
By proactively informing yourself and evaluating your current and future needs, you can ease the stress that may naturally arise from choosing a health insurance plan on or off the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace.
The following will help you have a smoother sign-up experience:
Get informed and ask questions
Before you decide to renew your health insurance plan, think about your costs and health care needs:
- Preference. Which doctors do you want to see? What hospitals do you prefer? If you have a primary care provider or other specialists you trust, make sure they are “in-network” or “preferred” on the insurance plan you are considering. This will keep out-of-pocket costs to a minimum. Learn what’s “in-network” in Illinois or Wisconsin.
- Costs. What are your average health care costs? Get an idea of how much you usually spend each year. Make sure to factor in doctor visits and costs for prescription medications.
- Budgets. What is your budget this year? How much can you afford to pay each month for your premium? If you go with a lower premium, can you afford the added out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance?
- Savings. Unlike previous years, many people won’t receive financial help through tax credits due to federal policy changes. Though, it’s important to still fill out any government-requested information to make sure you receive the lowest monthly cost. Online tools can help you estimate plan prices and any savings.
- Future plans. Are there specific health services you need? Are you planning to have a baby or schedule surgery? Do you have a medical condition that requires frequent doctor visits and tests?
Gather information
Ahead of filling out the health insurance application, you should gather and have the following updated information ready:
- The name of your employer, if applicable
- Your household income
- Social Security numbers (SSN) and date of birth for everyone being insured
- Policy and identification numbers from your current health insurance plan, if applicable
- Other personal details, such as how you file taxes
- Apply and submit your application on healthcare.gov. If you currently have a health insurance plan, review your application to update your personal information, especially if your income has changed.
- The open enrollment period is shorter this year, so don’t miss the December 15, 2025, sign-up deadline for coverage to begin on January 1, 2026. This includes responding to any verification requests.
Find more information about Health Care Marketplace Open Enrollment: Illinois | Wisconsin.
Maureen Centeno is a managed health engagement specialist at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care.
