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Your guide to healthcare support

CHIP
A clearer place to start.

Low-cost health coverage for children in families that earn too much for Medicaid.

Free results · About 3 minutes · No account needed

The program at a glance
What it helps with
Healthcare
Administered by
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Typical processing estimate
7–30 days
Cost to apply directly
Free

Your state agency decides eligibility and benefit amounts. This guide helps you get oriented.

The basics

Understand the support.

CHIP is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Avg $200–$500/month per child

Income limits vary by state (200%–300% FPL).

Benefits depend on your household and the program’s rules. A possible match is a starting point, not an approval.

Who may qualify

Start with your household.

These are some of the factors the program considers. State rules and additional requirements may apply.

Income

250% of the poverty level

A general income reference. Deductions and state rules can change the applicable limit.

Where you live

Check your state’s rules

Your state guide brings together application links and local requirements.

Choose your state
Income reference

See how household size matters.

The 2026 federal poverty guidelines provide a reference point. This table is illustrative; confirm the program’s current limits with your state.

CHIP illustrative income threshold in the contiguous US: 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Based on 2026 HHS poverty guidelines. Program effective dates, deductions and state rules may differ; confirm with the agency.

Household Size2026 FPLAnnual Limit (250%)Monthly Limit
1 person$15,960$39,900$3,325
2 people$21,640$54,100$4,508
3 people$27,320$68,300$5,692
4 people$33,000$82,500$6,875
5 people$38,680$96,700$8,058
6 people$44,360$110,900$9,242
7 people$50,040$125,100$10,425
8 people$55,720$139,300$11,608

Each additional person adds approximately $5,680 to the FPL base ($14,200 at 250%).

What to gather

A little preparation helps.

Your agency will confirm exactly what it needs. These documents are a useful place to start.

  • Child's birth certificate
  • Proof of residency
  • Proof of income
  • Child's SSN

You do not need to upload documents or provide your Social Security number to take our free quiz.

Find your state

Your next step is closer to home.

Explore local requirements and where to apply for CHIP.

View all 51 states and districts
Visit the official program website
Common questions

A few things to know.

What is CHIP?

Low-cost health coverage for children in families that earn too much for Medicaid.

How much is CHIP worth?

$2,400 to $6,000 per year. Avg $200–$500/month per child

What documents do I need?

You'll need: Child's birth certificate, Proof of residency, Proof of income, Child's SSN.

How long does processing take?

7-30 days from submission.

How often do I renew?

Every 12 months.

Your next step

See what may fit your household.

Answer a few questions to explore your possible matches and free application links. No account needed.

Find my benefits →

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