How to Apply for Medicaid and CHIP

Medicaid is a federal and state health insurance program for people with a low income.

The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offers health coverage to children. To be eligible, the child's family must have an income that is:

• Too high to qualify for Medicaid
• Too low to afford private coverage

Medicaid and CHIP program names are different in each state.

What help is available through Medicaid?

Medicaid provides free or low-cost medical benefits to eligible:

• Adults with a low income
• Children
• People who are pregnant
• People who are age 65 or over
• People with disabilities

Am I eligible for Medicaid?

Check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if you or your family members are eligible for benefits. In general, it depends on at least one or a combination of:

• Age
• Income level
• Number of people in your family
• If you are pregnant or have a disability

How do I apply for Medicaid?

There are two ways to apply for Medicaid:

• Contact your state Medicaid agency. You must be a resident of the state where you are applying for benefits.
• Fill out an application through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

If your income is too high for Medicaid, your child may still qualify for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It covers medical and dental care for uninsured children and teens up to age 19.

Is my child eligible for CHIP?

CHIP qualifications are different in every state. In most cases, they depend on income.

How do I apply for CHIP benefits?

You have two ways to apply for CHIP:

• Find a program by state, or call the Health Insurance Marketplace at 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325).
• Fill out an application through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

What else do I need to know about CHIP?

• You can apply for and enroll in Medicaid or CHIP anytime during the year.
• Learn how to use your Medicaid or CHIP coverage.

• Like Medicaid and CHIP, the Basic Health Program (BHP) offers affordable, continuous coverage. It’s an optional program that your state may offer. It’s available to people with incomes that shift above and below Medicaid or CHIP levels.
• Get information on other common types of health insurance, such as Medicare, and find help paying for medical bills.

If you have a problem with Medicaid or CHIP services, you can file a complaint. These programs are managed by each state rather than the federal government. Contact your state's Medicaid program to report your issue.