Free Coverage for Eligible Families

Health Insurance for Your Kids

Millions of children qualify for free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP. Find out if your family is eligible and get your kids covered today.

39M+

Children Covered by Medicaid

9M+

Kids Enrolled in CHIP

50

States with Programs

$0

Cost for Many Families

Children's Health Coverage Programs

Three main options exist for getting your children covered. Here's what you need to know about each.

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Medicaid for Children

Free coverage for qualifying families

  • Free health coverage for children in low-income families
  • Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions
  • Includes dental, vision, and mental health services
  • No monthly premiums for most families
  • Apply anytime - no enrollment periods
Learn About Medicaid โ†’
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CHIP Program

Low-cost coverage for middle-income families

  • For families earning too much for Medicaid
  • Low monthly premiums (often under $50/month)
  • Comprehensive coverage including preventive care
  • Covers children up to age 19
  • Each state runs its own CHIP program
Find Your State's CHIP โ†’
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Marketplace Family Plans

Subsidized private insurance for all

  • Private insurance with federal tax credits
  • Cover the whole family under one plan
  • Many families qualify for $0 or low premiums
  • Choose your own doctors and hospitals
  • Open enrollment Nov 1 - Jan 15 annually
Get Family Health Quotes โ†’

Find Your State's Program

Each state runs its own Medicaid and CHIP programs with different names, eligibility rules, and benefits. Click your state to find local resources.

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: You can also call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669) to find your state's program and check eligibility over the phone.

Do Your Kids Qualify?

Eligibility is based on family size and income. Many families are surprised to learn they qualify - even those with higher incomes can get CHIP coverage.

  • Medicaid: Generally up to 138% of poverty level
  • CHIP: Often covers up to 200-300% of poverty level
  • Income limits vary significantly by state
  • Apply even if you're unsure - there's no penalty

2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines

Family Size 138% FPL (Medicaid) 200% FPL (CHIP)
2 $25,268 $41,400
3 $31,876 $52,200
4 $38,484 $63,000
5 $45,092 $73,800
6 $51,700 $84,600

Many states have higher income limits. Apply to check your eligibility!

Protect Your Whole Family

Once your kids are covered, make sure the rest of your family is protected too.

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Life Insurance for Parents

Protect your children's future. If something happens to you, life insurance ensures they're taken care of financially.

Get Life Insurance Quotes
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Family Health Plans

Don't qualify for Medicaid? Get affordable family health coverage through the marketplace with premium tax credits.

Compare Family Plans
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Grandparents: Medicare

Are grandparents helping raise the kids? Make sure they have the coverage they need with Medicare.

Medicare Information

How to Apply for Coverage

1

Gather Documents

You'll need proof of income (pay stubs, tax return), Social Security numbers for all family members, and proof of residency.

2

Apply Online or by Phone

Visit HealthCare.gov or your state's Medicaid website. You can also call 1-877-KIDS-NOW for help applying.

3

Get Your Determination

States must respond within 45 days. If approved, coverage often starts immediately or the 1st of the next month.

4

Choose a Doctor

Once enrolled, select a primary care doctor for your children and schedule their first checkup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Medicaid and CHIP? +
Medicaid provides free health coverage to families with lower incomes. CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) is for families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but need affordable coverage. CHIP may have small premiums and copays, while Medicaid is typically free.
Can I apply if I'm undocumented? +
Children who are U.S. citizens or have eligible immigration status can qualify for Medicaid/CHIP even if their parents are undocumented. Applying for your citizen children will NOT affect your immigration status or be shared with immigration authorities.
My income changes throughout the year. Can I still qualify? +
Yes! Eligibility is based on your current monthly income or projected annual income. If your income fluctuates, you may qualify during lower-income months. You can also update your information if your situation changes.
What if I don't qualify for Medicaid or CHIP? +
If your income is too high for these programs, you can get affordable private insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Many families qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce costs. Get a quote for family coverage.
Does Medicaid/CHIP cover dental and vision? +
Yes! Under federal law, Medicaid must provide dental services to children, and most CHIP programs include comprehensive dental and vision coverage. This includes regular checkups, cleanings, fillings, glasses, and more.
When can I apply? +
Unlike private insurance, there's no "open enrollment" period for Medicaid and CHIP. You can apply any time of year, and if you qualify, coverage can begin immediately or the first of the following month.

Want to Learn More About Insurance?

Visit our comprehensive guide covering all types of insurance for your family.

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