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State Children's Health Insurance Program

undefined State Children's Health Insurance Program?


The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a partnership between the federal and state governments that provides low-cost health coverage to children in families that earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid. In some states, CHIP covers pregnant women. Each state offers CHIP coverage, and works closely with its state Medicaid program. CHIP benefits are different in each state. But all states provide comprehensive coverage, like routine check-ups, immunizations, doctor visits, and prescriptions. Check with your state for information about covered services.

Each state program has its own rules about who qualifies for CHIP. You can apply right now, any time of year, and find out if you qualify. If you apply for Medicaid coverage to your state agency, you’ll also find out if your children qualify for CHIP. You must check with the CHIP office in the state you live in to confirm if your family is eligible to get benefits. These programs may be called different names in your state. To find information about the Medicaid and CHIP programs in your state, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). When you call, you’ll be connected to someone in your state who can help you learn whether your children may qualify and help you enroll them.

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a partnership between the federal and state governments that provides low-cost health coverage to children in families that earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid. In some states, CHIP covers pregnant women. Each state offers CHIP coverage, and works closely with its state Medicaid program. CHIP benefits are different in each state. But all states provide comprehensive coverage, like routine check-ups, immunizations, doctor visits, and prescriptions. Check with your state for information about covered services.

Each state program has its own rules about who qualifies for CHIP. You can apply right now, any time of year, and find out if you qualify. If you apply for Medicaid coverage to your state agency, you’ll also find out if your children qualify for CHIP. You must check with the CHIP office in the state you live in to confirm if your family is eligible to get benefits. These programs may be called different names in your state. To find information about the Medicaid and CHIP programs in your state, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). When you call, you’ll be connected to someone in your state who can help you learn whether your children may qualify and help you enroll them.

undefined State Children's Health Insurance Program?


To be eligible for this benefit program, applicants must live in the state in which they apply 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$58,320
2$78,880
3$99,440
4$120,000
5$140,560
6$161,120
7$181,680
8$202,240

*For households with more than eight people, add $20,560 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.

In some cases, the income eligibility for children can be higher. Depending on your income level, you may need to pay low premiums and cost-sharing for some services. See your state's program information for details.

undefined State Children's Health Insurance Program?


You can enroll in CHIP anytime, and can apply online, by phone, by mail or in person. You can apply using the online application or directly at your state’s Medicaid or CHIP agency. For specific information about CHIP in your state, including steps to apply, visit InsureKidsNow.gov.


For more information, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).