Managing Agency Ohio

Program Description

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.

General Program Requirements

In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Ohio, under 19 years of age or be a primary care giver with a child under the age of 19, not covered by health insurance (including Medicaid), and a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident.

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

Household Size*Maximum Income Level (Per Year)
1$23,760
2$32,040
3$40,320
4$48,600
5$56,880
6$65,160
7$73,460
8$81,780
*For households with more than eight people, add  $8,320 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.
(Some types of income are exempted or disregarded, so you should apply even if your income is more that what is listed above.) Depending on your income level, you may have to pay a premium for coverage. Your children may receive immediate, time-limited coverage while you gather the necessary verifications to qualify for the full twelve months of coverage. Please see this state's program information for details.

Your Next Steps

The following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this program.

Application Process

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) - JFS Form #07216:
http://www.jfs.ohio.gov/ohp/consumers/Application.stm

Program Contact Information

Families may receive further information by visiting our website at:

 http://www.jfs.ohio.gov/ohp/consumers/HealthyStart.stm