Illinois Residents Brace for Massive Healthcare Cost Hikes as ACA Subsidies Expire

As of November 11, 2025, Illinois residents who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace are bracing for a potential healthcare crisis. Experts warn that if Congress allows the ACA subsidies to expire, Illinois could see a statewide average premium increase of 78%, with some counties like Cook County facing a 95% hike.

This looming situation stems from the ongoing standoff in Congress over the future of the ACA subsidies. While the government shutdown appears to be nearing an end, there is growing concern that lawmakers may not act in time to extend the subsidies before the next open enrollment period. Stephanie Armour, a senior health policy correspondent at KFF Health News, notes that Congress is unlikely to approve a "band-aid fix" to extend the subsidies, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable.

The impact could be catastrophic for Illinois residents, with the state's Department of Insurance estimating that nearly 500,000 Illinoisans, or 91% of those with exchange plans, currently qualify for the ACA subsidies. Without this financial assistance, the statewide average premium of $260 per month could skyrocket to $464, pricing many out of the market. Experts warn that as many as 5 million people nationwide may drop their insurance coverage altogether if the subsidies are not extended.