Apply for Medicaid & CHIP in 5 Simple Steps: A 2024 Guide

Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans. This guide breaks down how to apply for these essential benefits into 5 simple steps, from checking your eligibility to submitting your application.

Step 1: Check if You Are Eligible for Medicaid or CHIP

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

• Adults with a low income
• Children
• Pregnant women
• People age 65 or over
• People with disabilities

To see if you or your family members are eligible, you must find and check with your state’s Medicaid agency. Each state has its own requirements, which are often based on income, age, family size, and disability status.

If your income is too high for Medicaid, your children may still qualify for CHIP. Find out if your child qualifies for coverage with CHIP.

Managing finances on a low income can be a major challenge. In addition to healthcare, you may find it helpful to learn more about how to find affordable housing to ensure stability for your family.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents and Information

When you apply for Medicaid, you may need to provide certain information or documentation. What is required depends on your state, but it's best to have these items ready:

• Your name and date of birth
• Your Social Security number
• Your monthly payment amounts for rent, mortgage, or utilities
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status
• Proof of income, like paystubs or W-2s
• Information about any other government benefits you receive
• Details about any other health insurance you may have

To learn the exact documentation they require, find and check with your state's Medicaid agency.

Step 3: Choose Your Application Method

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

• Directly with Your State: The most direct method is to apply through your state's Medicaid agency. You must be a resident of the state where you are applying.
• Through the Health Insurance Marketplace: Create an account and fill out an application at HealthCare.gov. If it looks like anyone in your household qualifies for Medicaid or CHIP, your information will be automatically sent to your state agency.

Step 4: Complete and Submit Your Application

Fill out the application completely and accurately. Double-check all the information before submitting it through your chosen method. The state agency will review your application and contact you about your eligibility and the next steps for enrollment.

Step 5: Renew Your Coverage and Find a Doctor

Your state will review your eligibility each year. Be sure to respond to any requests for information to keep your coverage. Once approved, you will need to find a healthcare provider who accepts Medicaid or CHIP. You can find a list of approved doctors by contacting your state's Medicaid agency.