How Do I Apply for an Illinois Medical Card?

Government medical insurance in Illinois is processed and distributed through the Illinois Department of Health and Family Services. Certain requirements must be met to qualify for health benefits. These benefits are designed to assist families and individuals in paying for medical services, including routine and emergency care. Illinois Medicaid offers several types of Medicaid options available for users to select depending on their needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit the nearest Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. Your local office can be located on the Health and Human Services website or by searching the telephone book for "Health and Human Services."

• 2

  Complete the application provided by Human Services staff. The application asks questions about the household size, the income of each applying individual, the age of each applicant, if any of the individuals are pregnant and Social Security number of each applicant. Additional information that may be required are proof of any income and proof of any expenses, including rent and childcare.

• 3

  Submit the application to a staff member for processing. The office determines if the applicant individual or family qualifies for services and the individual or family will be notified by mail. If the application is denied, the denial can be appealed within 30 days. Appeal forms are included in the denial letter along with an address envelope and return directions. Approval takes from 30 to 45 days from the time the application is submitted and appeals take 30 days for review and final decision.