CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program)

What CHIP is

CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) gives low-cost health coverage to uninsured children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid. This means your children can see doctors, go to the hospital, get prescriptions, and get preventive care—even if your family's income is modest.

Some states also use CHIP to cover pregnant people.

Who qualifies

You may qualify if:

• Your children are uninsured
• Your family income is above the Medicaid limit but not too high for CHIP (the exact limit depends on your state)
• Your children are U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants
• You live in the state where you're applying

Each state sets its own CHIP income limits and costs. Some states run CHIP as part of Medicaid, while others run it as a separate program. Find your state's specific rules on your [state CHIP page](/state).

How much CHIP costs

CHIP is designed to be affordable. You may pay:

• Low or no monthly premiums
• Small copays when you use care (like a few dollars for a doctor visit)
• Little or no cost for preventive services like vaccines and checkups

Your actual costs depend on your state and your family's income.

How to apply

You can apply at any time of year—there's no enrollment season for CHIP like there is for other health plans.

Option 1: Apply through your state

Each state has its own CHIP application. Go to your state CHIP page to find the link to apply online, by mail, or in person.

Option 2: Apply through HealthCare.gov

You can also apply for CHIP and other coverage at HealthCare.gov. This site can direct you to your state's CHIP program and help you figure out what you might qualify for.

What to have ready

When you apply, you'll need to provide information about:

• Your family members and their ages
• Your household income (pay stubs, tax returns, or self-employment records)
• Your Social Security numbers (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers)
• Your citizenship or immigration status
• Your current health coverage, if any

Exact requirements vary by state. Check your state's CHIP page for details.

What happens after you apply

Once you submit your application:

1. 1
   Step 1: Your state reviews itThe CHIP agency looks at your income, family size, and other information.
2. 2
   Step 2: Coverage startsIf approved, your children's coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after you apply—or sometimes right away, depending on your state.

If your application is denied, you can appeal. Your state will explain how.

Applying is free. Only the state agency decides whether you qualify.

Renewing your coverage

CHIP coverage lasts for a set period, usually 12 months. Your state will send you a renewal notice before your coverage ends.

You'll need to:

1. 1
   Step 1: Fill out the renewal form
2. 2
   Step 2: Send it back by the deadline your state gives you
3. 3
   Step 3: Report any changes in your income or family size

If you don't renew on time, your coverage will end. You can reapply at any time, but it's easier to renew before your deadline.

Related programs

If your family doesn't qualify for CHIP, you may qualify for:

• Medicaidfree or low-cost coverage for children and adults with lower incomes
• Other health plans on HealthCare.govprivate insurance with federal subsidies
• Emergency Medicaidcovers certain emergency services for uninsured people

Use the benefits screener to see what programs your family might qualify for.

Next steps

1. 1
   Step 1: Find your state's CHIP program on your state page.
2. 2
   Step 2: Gather your income documents and family information.
3. 3
   Step 3: Apply online, by mail, or in person—whichever your state offers.
4. 4
   Step 4: Keep your approval letter and renewal reminders in a safe place.

If you have questions, contact your state's CHIP program directly. Your state page has the phone number and website.

For general help, visit HealthCare.gov or contact the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services at the official CHIP site.