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Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
What is CHIP?
CHIP is a federal and state program that provides health coverage to uninsured children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid, but too low to afford private coverage. CHIP also offers coverage to pregnant women.
What does CHIP offer?
Your child will receive medical care, vision exams, dental care, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services that are available under Medi-Cal.
Who is eligible?
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Children:
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under 19, regardless of immigration status
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With a household income of under 266% of the FPL (Federal Poverty Level)
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Pregnant women who do not have Medi-Cal between 214-322% of the FPL regardless of immigration status
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This program is known as MCAP (Medi-Cal Access Program)
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Infants aged up to two years old whose mothers are between 261-317% of the FPL
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This program is known as MCAIP (Medi-Cal Access Infant Program)
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NOTE: Your unborn child is also counted as a person when determining household size.
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Check what your FPL is here!
How much does CHIP cost in California?
Medi-Cal for Children (CHIP) has a premium of $13/child per month, and a maximum of $39 a month per family. So if you have 4 children, it will still cost $39/month.
If your family is under 160% of the FPL, it is free.
Can I get discounts on monthly premiums?
Yes! There are 3 ways to get a discount:
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If you pay three months in advance, you will receive the fourth month free.
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If you set up monthly automatic payments online, you will get a 25 percent discount on your premiums.
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If you pay by Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT), you will automatically receive a 25 percent discount on your monthly premium.