» State Programs

State Children's Health Insurance Program

By: Meg Dilts

Program Description

The State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) is a partnership between the Federal and State Governments that provides health coverage to uninsured children whose families earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but too little to afford private coverage. All states provide immunizations and well baby/well child care at no cost and may cover much more. The Federal government establishes general guidelines for the administration of SCHIP benefits. However, specific eligibility requirements to receive SCHIP benefits, as well as the type and scope of services provided, are determined by each individual State. You must check with the SCHIP office in the state you live in to confirm your family's eligibility to receive benefits. Important: Names for this program vary by state. If you are not sure which office to contact, contact the main Medicaid Hotline in your state and ask for the office that deals with children's health insurance.

General Program Requirements


In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be under 19 years of age, not covered by health insurance (including Medicaid), a US national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident, and you must have an annual household income before taxes of less than $17,961 if one person lives in the household; $24,241 if two people live in the household; $30,521 if three people live in the household; $36,801 if four people live in the household; $43,081 if five people live in the household; $49,361 if six people live in the household; $55,641 if seven people live in the household; $61,921 if eight people live in the household; $68,201 if nine people live in the household; $74,481 if 10 people live in the household; $80,761 if 11 people live in the household; $87,041 if 12 people live in the household; and $93,321 if more than 12 people live in the household.


Program Contact Information
To learn more about the SCHIP program and the specific eligibility requirements and program benefits in your State, visit:
http://www.insurekidsnow.gov

For more information, you may also call this toll-free number:
877-543-7669




Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services


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Date Added: 2009-04-04 Views : 131