Skip to main content
An official website of the United States government
Building icon
The .gov means it's official
Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or “location”) bar.
Lock icon
This site is also protected by an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate that’s been signed by the U.S. government. The https:// means all transmitted data is encrypted — in other words, any information or browsing history that you provide is transmitted securely.

Ohio Healthy Start

undefined Ohio Healthy Start?


Ohio Healthy Start (federally known as Children's Health Insurance Program, CHIP) provides, free or low-cost health insurance for families with children. This program is designed to provide increased access to health coverage for children in families with income too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage.

Ohio Healthy Start (federally known as Children's Health Insurance Program, CHIP) provides, free or low-cost health insurance for families with children. This program is designed to provide increased access to health coverage for children in families with income too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage.

undefined Ohio Healthy Start?


To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Ohio and meet all of the following:

  • Either 18 years of age and under or a primary care giver with a child(ren) 18 years of age and under, and
  • A U.S. Citizen, National, or a Non-Citizen legally admitted into the U.S, and
  • Uninsured (and ineligible for Medicaid).

In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Annual Household Income Limits (before taxes)
Household Size*Maximum Income Level (Per Year)
1$30,120
2$40,880
3$51,640
4$62,400
5$73,160
6$83,920
7$94,680
8$105,440

*For households with more than eight people, add $10,760 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.

undefined Ohio Healthy Start?


When applying for Healthy Start, proof of income, pregnancy, citizenship (if not a U.S. citizen) and other health insurance is required. No face-to-face interview is necessary.

By calling the Consumer Hotline at 1-800-324-8680, hotline staff can provide general information or offer assistance in filling out the application. The hotline is staffed seven days a week. Families can also find applications at their local office of job & family services.

Families can apply for Healthy Start by downloading and filling out the Combined Programs Application (CPA).


Families may receive further information by visiting the Ohio Department of Medicaid website.