ChIP IN

Texas’ Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid provide income-eligible families with health insurance for their kids from birth to age 19. A family of four with income of $44,000 or less may qualify for either CHIP or Medicaid. Families who are eligible for CHIP pay $50 a year or less to cover all of their children. Families eligible for children’s Medicaid pay nothing for six months of coverage.

For more information on eligibility:
http://www.chipmedicaid.org/cbo/eligibility.htm

Some co-pays apply. Both programs cover:

-       Physician services, both check-ups and specialty care

-       Prescription drugs

-       Dental services

-       Vaccinations

-       Eye exams and glasses

We have people who can help families with the application process. For a schedule of events where application assistance is available, go to key dates. Be sure to bring

• Your child’s social security number
• If your child is not a U.S. citizen, the child’s Alien Registration Card (I-551) or a copy of the front and back of the card
• If you receive child support, the attorney general’s statement of child support benefits
• A pay stub for you and your spouse or a letter from the employer of you and your spouse stating your monthly income. Click here to see if your family qualifies: Income guidelines — Spanish, Income guidelines English.
• Proof of how much you pay for childcare, disabled adult care, or child support.

If the family does not need application assistance, go ahead and apply online
http://www.chipmedicaid.org/en/Apply-Now

If you have applied, but not heard anything on your CHIP or Medicaid application within four weeks, follow up at 1-800-647-6558 or 1-877-KIDSNOW.  Keep all your CHIP/ Medicaid records together.

Always ask for and write down the name of the person who answers your call. Keep notes in you CHIP/Medicaid file of the date you called, the person you spoke to, and what they said. Be prepared to give your name, address, telephone number, and your children’s names and Social Security numbers.

If you need further assistance, call MHMR/Your Texas Benefits at 817-569-4779.

Select your health plan:

Once you have been approved for coverage, you will be asked to select from the following three health plans:

• Amerigroup
• Cook Children’s Health plan
• Aetna – Aetna Medicaid provider directory

Which plans have the highest quality ratings? Click here to download the most recent report. It includes metrics on primary care access, asthma and diabetes management, and mental health.

Employers — do you want to provide information for your workers about CHIP/Children’s Medicaid?

We can help, click here to learn more.

Want information on health insurance coverage choices for adults?

Download this comprehensive guide.  Or — call the US Uninsured Help Line (800.234.1317).