If your family earns too much for Medicaid but struggles to afford private insurance, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may cover your kids. Benefits are comprehensive and costs are low.
What Is CHIP?
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health coverage to children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Each state runs its own CHIP program with its own name, and benefits are comprehensive.
What CHIP Covers
- Routine doctor visits and checkups
- Prescription medications
- Dental care including cleanings, fillings, and orthodontics in some states
- Vision care and eyeglasses
- Mental health and behavioral health services
- Hospitalizations and emergency room visits
- Lab work, X-rays, and specialist visits
- Immunizations
Income Limits by State
CHIP income limits vary by state but generally cover children in families earning up to 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level. Some states cover children in families earning even more. For a family of four, this can mean qualifying with an income of $62,000 or more depending on where you live.
Premiums are very low or free. Most CHIP programs charge no premium for children in the lowest income brackets. Even at higher income levels, monthly premiums rarely exceed $50 per family, and copays for services are minimal.
How to Apply for CHIP
Step 1: Apply through HealthCare.gov, your state’s Medicaid/CHIP website, or by calling 1-800-318-2596.
Step 2: Provide household income information and your children’s identifying details.
Step 3: If your children do not qualify for Medicaid, the application is automatically evaluated for CHIP.
Step 4: Receive your eligibility determination and enroll in a plan. Coverage can begin immediately in many states.
Important Things to Know
No open enrollment restriction. Unlike marketplace plans, you can apply for CHIP at any time of year.
Coverage for pregnant women. Some states also extend CHIP coverage to unborn children or pregnant women who do not qualify for Medicaid.
Renewal is required. You must renew your children’s coverage annually, but the process is often streamlined with pre-filled applications.
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