Insurance can be confusing. Your child needs coverage, and you’re unsure where to start. You’ve heard of CHIP, and you’re not sure how it works, or how to apply.
MyCHN understands, and we’ve got you covered! Every state has a Children’s Health Insurance Program. CHIP provides low-cost health insurance to more than nine million children and teens in the U.S.
What is Texas CHIP?
In short, CHIP is free or low-cost health insurance for children who live in households that generate too much income to be eligible for Medicaid. While these families make too much to qualify for Medicaid, they often can’t afford private coverage. CHIP offers these families a variety of coverage options for little to no cost depending on the family’s eligibility.
Who is eligible for CHIP In Texas? Children must be 18 and younger to get CHIP in Texas. Children who have disabilities, aged 19 and 20, can also receive CHIP in some circumstances.
In addition, children also should be a Texas resident and U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen to get insurance through the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
What Does CHIP Cover?
CHIP covers the following:
- Doctor visits.
- Dental care and teeth cleaning.
- Prescriptions.
- Eye care and glasses.
- Hospital care.
- Hearing tests.
- X-rays.
- Routine checkups (well-baby and well-child visits)
- Immunizations
- Regular checkups (well-baby and well-child visits)
- Immunizations
- And more
How Much Does CHIP Cost?
Texas CHIP fees vary based on income. Enrollment fees are typically $50 or less per family per year. Co-pays for doctor visits and medicine can range from $3 to $35, depending on the family’s income. There are federal regulations on how much the state can charge. Your insurance provider cannot charge more than 5% of your income.
How Do I Apply for CHIP In Texas?
There are three ways you can apply for CHIP in Texas.
- Apply With MyCHN
MyCHN can help you enroll in CHIP. You can call us at (281) 824 – 1480, email us wecare@mychn.org, or visit our website to chat with one of our eligibility specialists! After we help you get enrolled, you can visit one of our 12 locations in the Houston area.
- Apply online
You can complete an online application at your speed. Visit www.YourTexasBenefits.com to access the application.
- Apply Via Phone
Call 2-1-1, pick a language, and then press 2. A Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) representative will then help you with your application over the phone and mail it to you to sign.
- Apply By Mail or Fax
Print out the application. Send your application back to HHSC with the items they need to prove your income (paycheck stubs) and receipts showing what you pay for childcare, child support, or care for someone with a disability.
You can use a pre-paid envelope or fax everything to 1.877.447. 2839. It can take up to 45 days for The HHSC to review your application. After that, you can call 211 to check the status of your application.
Need help with your Texas CHIP application? Give MyCHN a call. Our call center representatives Communication Center Representatives can help set up an appointment to help you with your Texas CHIP application.
Long Term Services and Supports
CHIP does not cover long-term services and support. However, if you have a child with a disability, the Medicaid Buy-In for Children program may be able to provide you with coverage. This program allows families with children with disabilities to make monthly payments and be covered by Medicaid.
Bottom Line
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a program for children in families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but don’t earn enough to afford private health insurance. CHIP is mainly funded by the federal government but is often disseminated through the state. CHIP was created to ensure that all children have access to healthcare.
If you’re looking for a healthcare provider who accepts CHIP in Texas, MYCHN accepts CHIP. We have multiple locations in the Houston area. Please visit our website to learn more.
Resources
A Guide to CHIP: About the Children’s Health Insurance Program – GoodRx
Children’s Medicaid & CHIP | Texas Health and Human Services
Texas CHIP Plan – Community Health Choice
CHIP | Texas Children’s Health Plan (texaschildrenshealthplan.org)
Health Insurance 101: What Is CHIP? – HealthiNation
How to Apply for Texas CHIP & CHIP-P – Community Health Choice
