All Kids Health Insurance in Illinois
What Is the All Kids Program?
The All Kids program is Illinois’s health insurance plan for children. It provides free or low-cost medical coverage to kids in Illinois, even if their parents earn too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid. The goal is simple: no child in Illinois should go without healthcare because of cost.
All Kids covers everything children need to grow up healthy—doctor visits, dental checkups, vision care, hospital stays, mental health services, and more.
Who Qualifies for All Kids?
To qualify, your child must meet these basic requirements:
Age: Under 19
Residency: Must live in Illinois
Citizenship/Immigration: U.S. citizens and certain lawful immigrants are eligible. Immigration status requirements vary slightly by income level.
Household Income: Based on family size. Many middle-income families still qualify for low-cost plans.
Here’s a general idea of monthly income limits (as of 2025):
Note: These numbers change annually. For exact income limits, visit abe.illinois.gov.
What Does All Kids Cover?
All Kids offers comprehensive health coverage, just like private insurance. Here’s what’s included:
✅ Doctor visits (including checkups and sick visits)
✅ Immunizations (shots)
✅ Emergency room and hospital care
✅ Prescription medicine
✅ Vision and hearing exams
✅ Dental exams, cleanings, fillings
✅ Mental health counseling
✅ Physical, speech, and occupational therapy
There are no deductibles, and most services are free or have very low copays, depending on your income.
How Much Does All Kids Cost?
The cost depends on your family’s income. All Kids is divided into different levels:
All Kids Assist: Free coverage for families below the income limit.
All Kids Share: Low monthly premiums (usually $15–$40 per child) and small copays.
All Kids Premium Level 1 & 2: Slightly higher premiums for middle-income families. Still much cheaper than private plans.
You’ll never pay more than $100 per child per year in copays.
How to Apply for All Kids
Applying is simple and can be done in three ways:
Online at abe.illinois.gov
In person at your local IDHS office
By phone: Call the All Kids Hotline at 1-866-255-5437
You’ll need to provide:
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
Child’s Social Security number or immigration documents
Proof of Illinois address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
💡 Tip: If your child already has health insurance, they may still qualify for All Kids if it’s unaffordable or doesn’t cover enough.
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?
Most applications are processed within 30 days. If your child is approved, coverage can start retroactively up to 3 months before your application date—great if you had recent medical bills.
What If I Already Have Medicaid or CHIP?
All Kids is Illinois’s version of Medicaid and CHIP for kids. If your child is already on Medicaid, they’re in the All Kids program. If you’ve recently lost coverage or missed a renewal, you can reapply at any time.
Common Questions About All Kids
Is there a waiting list?
No. Illinois doesn’t have a waiting list for All Kids. If your child qualifies, they can get covered right away.
Can I apply even if I have a job?
Yes. Most families in All Kids are working families. Eligibility is based on income, not employment status.
What if I have more than one child?
You can apply for all your children on the same application.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Yes. You’ll get a renewal notice once a year. Respond to it to keep your child’s coverage active.
👉 Start your application today at abe.illinois.gov or call 1-866-255-5437 to get help.
