How Do I Keep My Medicaid Benefits?

Blue Cross Community Health Plans^SM (BCCHP^SM) knows your health is important to you. Once annually, you may have to complete a renewal process to keep your benefits. This process is called redetermination.

You have not had to renew your Medicaid since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Illinois is now starting renewals again to see if you are still eligible. Everybody’s renewal date is different, so it is critical that you get ready to renew.

1. Click Manage My Case at abe.illinois.gov
   Create or login to your account at abe.illinois.gov to manage your benefits. Online is the best way to connect.
   
   
2. Verify your address
   If you use Medicaid, you need to keep your address current. Click Manage My Case at abe.illinois.gov and verify your address under Contact Us. 
   
   
3. Find your due date (also called a redetermination date) 
   Check your Benefit Details tab at abe.illinois.gov. Do you want reminders when it’s time to renew? Opt-in for text and email alerts in the Account Management tab under Manage your communications preferences.
   
   
4. Watch your mail 
   The Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) will mail you a notice to tell you your status and if you need to complete a renewal form. If you have to renew, you will get a renewal notice a month before it is due. 
   
   
5. Complete your Medicaid renewal right away
   If your letter says you need to, complete and submit your renewal before the due date (also called redetermination date) to avoid losing your Medicaid.
   
   Submit your Medicaid renewal by:
   → Clicking Manage My Case at abe.illinois.gov
   → Mailing or faxing your form according to the letter
   → Calling 1-800-843-6154

Beware of scams. Illinois will never ask you for money to renew or apply for Medicaid. Report scams to the fraud report website or the Medicaid fraud hotline at 1-844-453-7283 (1-844-ILFRAUD).

You can also call the Department of Human Services at 1-800-843-6154.

What if I am no longer eligible for Medicaid?

If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, it is important to quickly get other health insurance to avoid a lapse in coverage.

You usually have 30-60 days to enroll in a new plan. This is called a "Special Enrollment Period.”

You can ask your employer if health insurance is offered or you can visit getcovered.illinois.gov to shop for quality, affordable coverage provided under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Get Covered Illinois

Get Covered Illinois is the official ACA Health Insurance Marketplace for the state of Illinois, helping you shop for health insurance to fit your needs and budget. Health plans offered on the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace cover pre-existing conditions and essential health benefits, including preventive care and mental health services.

Visit getcoveredillinois.gov for more information, free enrollment assistance, and to find out if you may qualify for financial help. Many people find plans for $10 or less per month after tax credits.