Information: Support for Medical Costs
To get support for medical costs in Chicago, contact the financial assistance office of the hospital where you received care, apply for state or county programs like the Cook County Carelink program or the Illinois Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program, or explore options through the state marketplace, Get Covered Illinois. You can also call 211 for information on local charities and other assistance programs.
Hosptial Based Assistance
- Contact the hospital’s financial assistance or business office directly by calling the number on your bill.
- Complete a financial assistance application, which may require proof of income like pay stubs or tax returns.
- Many hospitals offer significant discounts based on income.
Medical Debt Relief Program
Eligible for debt relief if criteria met:
- Illinois residents
- Household income at or below 400% of federal poverty level (For 2025, annual income of up to $62,600 for a one-person household and up to $128,600 for a family of four)
- OR medical debt that equals 5% or more of household income
Resurrection Project
Help families achieve financial security and reach their goals by offering financial wellness workshops and services.
211 Metro Chicago
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone. 2-1-1 is a free, local, 24/7/365 service that connects all Cook County residents to essential health and social service support and information.
Illinois Free and Charitable Clinics
Has a directory of free and charitable clinics and additional resources.
CareLink or call (866) 223-2817
CareLink is a free program that helps Cook County residents cover the cost of care at any Cook County Health facility. CareLink discounts the cost of the following services: primary care visits, specialty doctor visits, clinic visits, lab tests, hospital stays and emergency services.
The information is adapted from text generated by Gemini.” Gemini, Google, 22 September 2025 and OpenAI ChatGPT on 12 December 2025″ support for medical costs in Chicago, Illinois” prompt.
This information provides no warranties regarding the accuracy or application of its content, disclaims responsibility for its use, and does not offer medical or legal advice. It does not endorse specific products or therapies, mandate medical care, or represent the standard of care. The information may not be continually updated, and it is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a treating provider. Provided “as is,” it makes no express or implied warranties, assumes no responsibility for any harm arising from its use, and disclaims liability for errors or omissions.
