What is CHIP? Who Qualifies and How to Apply

What is CHIP?

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a joint federal and state government program that provides free or low-cost health insurance to children of families with lower incomes. Because each state can run CHIP its own way within certain guidelines, eligibility requirements and coverage can vary.¹

Who can get coverage through CHIP?

Children and teens who don't have health insurance because their parents or guardians have not been able to get coverage for them, and who meet income and eligibility requirements should be able to get coverage through CHIP.

CHIP is generally available for people who are:

• 18 or younger
• Pregnant
• A primary caregiver with children 18 years old and under²

States also limit CHIP to those under certain income levels which vary by state. You can find your state's limits on your state's CHIP website. Also, most states require that CHIP recipients be residents and be ineligible for Medicaid.

What does CHIP cover?

Benefits vary by state, but every CHIP program offers comprehensive coverage including:

• Doctor visits
• Prescriptions
• Vision care
• Inpatient and outpatient hospital care
• Laboratory services
• X-ray services
• Emergency medical services

Additionally, every state must provide children in the CHIP program with well-baby and well-childcare, dental coverage, vaccines, and behavioral health care, among other services.³

Depending on the type of CHIP program your state has, the benefits package may include an array of prevention, diagnostic and treatment services for low-income infants, children, adolescents, and others under age 21.

How to apply for CHIP

Parents or guardians can apply for CHIP any time of year by calling 1-800-318-2596, via your state's CHIP online portal, or by applying for coverage through the federal government's Health Insurance Marketplace. If you fill out the federal application and meet the eligibility requirements for your state's CHIP or Medicaid program, your local Medicaid agency will contact you.³

Is CHIP the same as Medicaid?

CHIP and Medicaid are different. In general, Medicaid was created to help low-income or disabled adults and their children. CHIP was created to help build upon Medicaid with additional coverage and services for children only. Also, CHIP is available for families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but can't afford private health insurance.

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Author Bio

Diana Kelly Levey is a New York-based freelance health, lifestyle, and financial content marketing writer and copywriter. She has been covering pregnancy and parenting topics for over 10 years.

Our Expert Reviewer

Patty Caballero and her team of consultants together have more than 35 years of health insurance knowledge working for some of the biggest health insurance companies in the US. She has knowledge in building brands and strategic initiatives to help consumers better understand their health benefits.