Health & Benefits
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You can get an application for the All Kids Assist program by:
- Applying online,
- Requesting an application from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS),
- Calling the All Kids Hotline at (866) 255-5437 or TTY (877) 204-1012, or
- Going to your local Department of Human Services Office to request a paper application.
The All Kids Hotline has translation services available.
The easiest way to apply is online. It is often better to apply online because:
- It is faster,
- You don’t have to go to an office and wait in line, and
- You will have a tracking number for your application.
Make sure to provide copies of all documents that are requested on the application. Do not give HFS or the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) your originals without making a copy first.
If you need help applying for All Kids, you can find local help using the Get Covered Connector.
If you did not send in all the necessary information, All Kids will send you a letter telling you what information they still need.
All Kids will generally mail you their decision within 45 days of getting your application. If your child qualifies, they will send you a member handbook that explains the program. You will also get a member card.
When you are approved, you will receive a paper medical card that can be folded and kept in your wallet. The medical card is usually on the last page of your Notice of Decision. You should carry this card at all times and show it whenever you check in for a medical appointment.
You may also get a member card from your managed care plan through HealthChoice Illinois. You should carry the managed care medical card. Note the managed care plan may not cover all health services. Both the All Kids medical card and the managed care member card should be shown at appointments.
If you have problems with your card, errors on your card, or the card is lost, call the All Kids hotline at (866) 255-5437 or (877) 204-1012 (TTY).
What if I am denied All Kids or I disagree with the decision?
If your application is not approved, you will be sent a letter telling you why you do not qualify. You can appeal this decision. Your decision letter will tell you how to appeal. Generally, you must appeal within 60 days of the date of the notice.
Renewing All Kids every year
If your child is found eligible for All Kids, they will generally have 12 months of coverage unless they move out of Illinois or turn 19.
All Kids eligibility is re-determined every year. Watch for your yearly renewal letter and respond so your child's All Kids coverage continues. You can also renew online through the “Manage My Case” tab of the ABE system.
Worried about doing this on your own? You may be able to get free legal help.