As the new school year approaches, families face a flurry of activities—homework, practices, permission slips, and early mornings. Amid the preparations, ensuring children have health coverage is a critical step that can be overlooked. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid provide free or low-cost health coverage for eligible children and teens up to age 19, helping them stay healthy and succeed in school.
Eligibility for these programs varies by state and is based on family income and household size. In most states, children from a family of four earning up to $80,000 per year may qualify, and in some states, eligible children can still qualify even if family income is higher. Many families may be surprised to learn they qualify for coverage they did not realize was available.
Health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP offers a range of services essential for children's well-being and academic performance. Annual checkups and school physicals prepare children to learn and participate. Preventive care identifies health needs early, while dental care helps prevent toothaches and cavities that could lead to missed school days. Vision and hearing services support classroom learning, and mental health care addresses emotional well-being. Prescription medications and treatment help manage symptoms, and specialized services are available for children with disabilities.
Healthy children are more confident and ready to engage in opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. For parents, having coverage means access to care when needed—whether it is medicine to recover from illness, supports for focusing difficulties, or glasses for vision problems.
Applying for Medicaid and CHIP is straightforward. Families can apply by phone, by mail, in person at their state Medicaid or CHIP office, or online at InsureKidsNow.gov/coverage. Enrollment is open year-round, so families do not have to wait for a specific period to get their children covered.
Once enrolled, coverage must be renewed every twelve months. It is important to keep contact information—address, email, and phone number—up to date with the state Medicaid or CHIP office to avoid missing renewal notices. For more information, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).
Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. This communication was printed, published, or produced and disseminated at U.S. taxpayer expense.
