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How to apply for Medicaid and CHIP

Medicaid provides health insurance for people with a low income. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers children. Learn about eligibility and how to apply.

Find out if you are eligible for Medicaid

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

  • Adults with a low income
  • Children
  • People who are pregnant
  • People age 65 or over
  • People with disabilities
Find and check with your state’s Medicaid agency to see if you or your family members are eligible. Each state has its own requirements.

In general, eligibility 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 to apply for Medicaid

You can apply for Medicaid any time of year in one of the following ways:

Find out if your child is eligible for CHIP

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.

CHIP qualifications are different in every state. In most cases, they depend on income. Find out if your child qualifies for coverage with CHIP.

How to apply for CHIP

You can apply for CHIP in one of the following ways:

Find a doctor or care provider who accepts Medicaid or CHIP

Not every provider accepts Medicaid. To locate a Medicaid or CHIP medical provider, find and check with your state's Medicaid agency.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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