Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Autism Foundation of Illinois’ insurance scholarship program?
The Foundation helps families access private health insurance by securing plans through the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov. If eligible, subsidies (also known as tax credits) will be used to reduce the cost of monthly premiums.
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2. Who qualifies for a scholarship?
Eligibility is based on household income, family size, and insurance needs. Families with low to moderate income who are uninsured or underinsured are encouraged to apply.
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3. What kind of insurance will I receive?
You will be enrolled in a private health insurance plan through the federal Marketplace. The plan details (such as provider network, copays, deductibles) will be shared once enrollment is complete. Plans are typically PPO plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois unless a different plan is requested.
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4. Can I still use Medicaid?
Yes. If you already have Medicaid, you will keep it. However, if your Medicaid is through a Managed Care Organization (MCO), it may be converted to traditional Fee-for-Service Medicaid (also known as "straight HFS")—though this doesn’t always happen. Regardless, you won’t have any out-of-pocket costs.
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5. Can I still see my current providers?
You should use this new private insurance for every healthcare provider you see, including doctors, therapists, specialists, etc. Be sure to inform each provider about your new insurance as soon as you are approved for a scholarship. Most providers in Illinois who take insurance are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, but if your provider takes a different insurance, please let us know in your application.
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6. Who pays the monthly insurance bill?
The Foundation will make the payments directly to the insurance provider on your behalf.
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7. Will I receive an insurance card?
Yes. Your insurance card will be mailed to your home directly from the insurance company.
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8. Will I be responsible for paying anything?
No. If you qualify, the Foundation covers the full premium using available subsidies. You will not have to pay anything.
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9. Do I need to log in or make payments myself?
No. The Foundation will manage online payments using the email on file during enrollment. You do not need to take any payment actions.
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10. What do I need to do once I'm enrolled?
Please notify all your medical providers of your new insurance. You can do this by showing your new card or calling their office with your new policy number.
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11. Will the Foundation coordinate with my providers directly?
No. You are responsible for letting your providers know about your new insurance coverage. The Foundation does not contact healthcare providers on your behalf.
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12. What if I move or my family situation changes?
Let the Foundation know right away. Address or income changes may affect your eligibility or require updates to your insurance.
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13. What if I lose my card or have questions about my coverage?
Contact the insurance company directly using the phone number on the back of your card. For issues with billing or payments, you may contact the Foundation at info@autismfoundationsaukvalley.com.
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14. How do I apply?
You can apply online at www.autismfoundationsaukvalley.com/scholarships. The application will collect basic information about your household, income, and coverage needs.
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15. Is there a deadline to apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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16. When will my insurance policy start?
Insurance policies typically start the first of the month following approval for insurance. For instance, if there is insurance approval on May 15th, the insurance policy will begin June 1st.
