CHICAGO – More than 500,000 Illinois residents are receiving letters this week, saying their medical debt has been erased. The state cleared $1.1 billion in unpaid medical bills through a relief program aimed at helping families most burdened by health care costs.
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services said the program covers households with incomes below 400% of the federal poverty level or with medical debt totaling at least 5% of their annual income. No one needs to apply. Notices are being sent in white envelopes marked with the Illinois seal.
State Senator Mike Simmons led the push for the Medical Debt Relief Program, which became law in 2024. Simmons said the goal is to help residents avoid having to…