CHIP Eligibility: Low-Cost Health Coverage for Kids

CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) gives low-cost health coverage to uninsured children in families that earn too much for Medicaid. Each state runs its own program with different income limits and costs, so eligibility depends on where you live. Applying is free and can happen anytime.

Who qualifies for CHIP

Your child can apply for CHIP if they:

• Are under age 19 in most states
• Are a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
• Don't have health coverage through an employer or another program
• Live in a state with a CHIP program

Some states also cover pregnant people through CHIP. Check with your state program to see if this applies to your family.

CHIP is designed for the middle ground: families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but don't have access to affordable private insurance. Unlike Medicaid, which is run directly by states, CHIP is a federal program that helps states fill this gap specifically for children.

Income limits and monthly costs

Each state sets its own income limits. Generally, children in families earning between 138% and 400% of the federal poverty level may qualify, but this varies widely by state. Your state's CHIP income limit may be much higher than its Medicaid limit.

For 2026, the federal poverty guideline is:

• $15,960 per year for one person
• $21,640 for a family of two
• $27,320 for a family of three
• $33,000 for a family of four

These amounts are higher in Alaska and Hawaii. To find your state's exact income limits, visit Medicaid.gov/CHIP or contact your state Medicaid or CHIP agency.

CHIP is low-cost or free, depending on your state and income. Monthly premiums are usually between $0 and $50 per child, though some states charge more. Your family's out-of-pocket cost is based on your household income.

CHIP covers doctor visits, hospital care, dental care, vision care, prescription medications, and mental health services.

How to apply for CHIP

You can apply for CHIP at any time of year. There is no deadline. Applying is free.

Option 1: Contact your state directly. Call or visit the website of your state's CHIP or Medicaid agency. You can find contact information on Medicaid.gov by entering your state.

Option 2: Apply through HealthCare.gov. Go to HealthCare.gov, answer questions about your family, and the site will send your application to your state's CHIP program.

What you'll need to provide: Be ready to share your family's income (from pay stubs, tax returns, or other documents), Social Security numbers, and proof of citizenship or qualified immigrant status. Your state may ask for additional information.

Only your state agency decides whether your child qualifies based on income and other factors. You don't need to apply for Medicaid first.

What happens after you apply

After you apply, your state will review your application and contact you about the decision. Most states respond within several weeks, though the timeline varies by state. If your child qualifies, coverage can start as soon as the first day of the month you applied. You'll receive information about how to choose a health plan and use your benefits.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for a deadline that doesn't exist. You can apply anytime—there's no open enrollment period like there is for the Affordable Care Act.
• Not applying because you think you earn too much. Each state's limits are different. Many families surprised to find they qualify should check their specific state's rules on Medicaid.gov.
• Forgetting to renew. Your child's coverage may need to be renewed periodically. Set a reminder to check when your coverage ends.
• Not reporting changes in income. Tell your state promptly if your family's income changes significantly, as this can affect your benefits or costs.

Related help

If your child doesn't qualify for CHIP, they may qualify for Medicaid. Use our free benefits screener or income calculators to check if your family qualifies for Medicaid or other health programs. You can also visit our programs guide to learn about other health coverage options.

Summary

CHIP provides low-cost or free health coverage to children in families earning too much for Medicaid. Each state sets its own income limits and costs. Apply anytime through your state or HealthCare.gov—it's free and only the state decides if you qualify.