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If your children need health insurance but private coverage feels out of reach, you may be closer to help than you think. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides low-cost or free health coverage to millions of kids across the country. Knowing how to apply for CHIP is the first step toward getting your children the care they deserve. This guide walks you through the entire process, from gathering documents to what happens after you submit your application.
What Is CHIP and Who Does It Cover?
CHIP is a federal program administered by individual states that provides health insurance to children in families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. It is available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., and coverage details can vary depending on where you live.
In general, CHIP covers children up to age 19 in households earning up to approximately $50,000 per year or more, depending on your state and family size. Some states also offer coverage to pregnant women. Because income limits and program rules differ by state, it is worth checking your specific state program even if you think your family earns too much to qualify.
What Does CHIP Cover?
- Routine checkups and well-child visits
- Immunizations and vaccinations
- Dental and vision care
- Emergency services
- Prescription medications
- Hospital care
- Mental health and behavioral health services
Copays and premiums, if any, are typically very low and are based on your family's income level. Many families pay nothing at all.
How to Apply for CHIP: Step-by-Step
The application process is straightforward, and you can complete it online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Here is what to expect at each stage.
Step 1 — Gather Your Documents
Before you start your application, collect the following information and documents. Having everything ready will make the process faster and smoother.
- Proof of identity for each child (birth certificate, passport, or hospital birth record)
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status for each child
- Social Security numbers for each child applying (and ideally for the parents as well)
- Proof of income for all household earners, such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letters
- Current health insurance information, if any, for the children
- Home address and contact information
Do not be discouraged if you cannot locate every document right away. Many state programs allow you to submit your application and follow up with supporting documents shortly after.
Step 2 — Choose How You Want to Apply
You have several options for submitting your CHIP application, and all of them are legitimate pathways to coverage.
- Online: Visit Healthcare.gov or your state's own CHIP or Medicaid website. Most states have a dedicated portal where you can fill out and submit the application digitally.
- By phone: Call 1-800-318-2596 to reach the Healthcare.gov help line, where trained assistants can walk you through the process in multiple languages.
- By mail or in person: Download a paper application from your state's CHIP website or pick one up at your local Medicaid or social services office.
Tip: If you start an application on Healthcare.gov and your children appear to qualify for CHIP, the system will automatically route your information to your state program. You may not need to apply separately.
Step 3 — Complete the Application
The application will ask for basic information about your household, including the names and ages of your children, your family's income, and your current living situation. Answer every question as accurately as possible. If something is unclear, the online portals typically include help text, or you can call for assistance.
Most applications take between 20 and 45 minutes to complete, depending on how many children you are enrolling and how complex your household income situation is.
Step 4 — Submit and Wait for a Decision
Once your application is submitted, your state has a set period to review it and notify you of a decision. In most cases, you will receive a response within 45 days. If your children are applying for Medicaid instead of CHIP, the decision often comes much faster, sometimes within a few days.
You may receive a request for additional documentation during this time. Respond promptly to avoid delays in coverage.
Step 5 — Enroll and Start Using Your Coverage
If your application is approved, you will receive information about your child's coverage, including their insurance card, the effective start date, and details about how to find in-network doctors and dentists. In some states, you may need to choose a health plan from a list of options before coverage begins.
Once enrolled, your child can start scheduling appointments, filling prescriptions, and accessing all covered services right away.
How to Apply for CHIP if You Were Previously Denied
If your family was denied CHIP coverage in the past, it is worth applying again. Income limits, household sizes, and state program rules change over time, and you may now qualify. There is no penalty for applying, and reapplying is free.
Additionally, if your family experiences a change in circumstances, such as a job loss, a new baby, or a reduction in income, you can apply or reapply at any time. CHIP does not have a restricted enrollment window like some private insurance plans.
Renewing CHIP Coverage
CHIP coverage is not permanent. Most states require annual renewal to confirm your family still qualifies. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail or by email before your child's coverage expires. Renewing is usually much faster than the original application since most of your information is already on file.
Make sure your contact information stays current with your state program so you do not miss renewal notices.
Your Next Step
Getting health coverage for your children does not have to be complicated. Whether you are applying for the first time or checking whether your family now qualifies, the process is free and designed to be accessible.
Visit Healthcare.gov or your state's CHIP website today to check eligibility and start your application. You can also call 1-800-318-2596 for free, personalized help in multiple languages. Coverage could begin within weeks, and your children deserve to have access to the care they need.
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