CHIP Income Limits 2025: State-by-State Breakdown

CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) provides free or low-cost health coverage for children whose families earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.

If you’re unsure where your family falls, check our Medicaid income limits by state (2025) to see how Medicaid and CHIP compare.

CHIP eligibility levels vary by state and can range from as low as 170% up to 400% of the Federal poverty level (FPL).

Most states offer CHIP coverage to children in families earning up to 200-300% of the federal poverty level.

What Is CHIP?

The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a federal and state partnership that provides health insurance coverage to uninsured children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid.

CHIP is a health care program for children without health insurance whose families earn too much to get Medicaid but cannot afford health insurance.

CHIP covers children up to age 19 in most states. The program provides comprehensive benefits including:

• Doctor visits and checkups
• Prescription medications
• Hospital care and emergency services
• Dental and vision care
• Mental health services

CHIP Income Limits Overview for 2025

CHIP income eligibility varies significantly by state, with most programs covering children in families earning between 200% to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Income limits vary by state but often extend to 200% or more of the FPL.

The 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines are:

• 1 person: $15,060
• 2 people: $20,440
• 3 people: $25,820
• 4 people: $31,200

States use these amounts to calculate CHIP eligibility thresholds.

State-by-State CHIP Income Limits Table

⚠️ IMPORTANT VERIFICATION NOTICE: These income limits are based on 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines and represent the most recent data available. However, states may update their CHIP eligibility levels throughout the year. Always verify current income limits with your state’s official CHIP program or visit your state’s health department website before applying. For the most up-to-date information, contact your state’s CHIP program directly or visit Medicaid.gov for official state program links.

Last updated based on available data as of early 2025. State programs may have implemented changes since publication.

Who Qualifies for CHIP?

To qualify for CHIP coverage, children must meet these basic requirements:

Age Requirements:

• 18 years old or younger. (In some cases, children with disabilities who are 19 or 20 years old may qualify)

Income Requirements:

• Family income above Medicaid limits but within CHIP thresholds
• Income typically between 100% to 400% of Federal Poverty Level

Residency Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
• Must live in the state where applying

Insurance Requirements:

• Cannot have access to affordable employer-sponsored insurance
• Must be uninsured for a specific period (varies by state)

How to Apply for CHIP

You can apply for CHIP through several methods:

Online Applications:

• Visit your state’s health insurance marketplace
• Use HealthCare.gov for streamlined applications
• Apply through your state’s Medicaid/CHIP website

Phone Applications:

• Call your state’s CHIP program directly
• Contact the HealthCare.gov call center at 1-800-318-2596

In-Person Applications:

• Visit local health departments
• Apply at community health centers
• Get help from certified application assistants

Required Documents:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
• Social Security numbers for all family members
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status
• Birth certificates for children

Key Eligibility Rules & Benefits

CHIP Premium Costs:

• Many kids receive CHIP for free. Others can get the same benefits at a low cost
• Premiums typically range from $0 to $50 per month per family
• No deductibles or co-pays for most services

Coverage Benefits:

• Preventive care including well-child visits and immunizations
• Emergency services and hospital care
• Prescription drug coverage
• Dental and vision services
• Mental health and behavioral services

Enrollment Periods:

• CHIP has year-round open enrollment
• No waiting periods for coverage to begin
• Coverage can start the first day of the month after application

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion & Next Steps

CHIP provides essential health coverage for millions of American children whose families earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. With income limits ranging from 170% to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, CHIP bridges the gap between Medicaid and marketplace insurance plans.

Next Steps to Get CHIP Coverage:

1. Check your state’s specific income limits using the table above
2. Gather required documents including proof of income and citizenship
3. Apply through your state’s website or HealthCare.gov
4. Contact your state CHIP program if you need application assistance

If your income is below CHIP limits, your child may qualify for free Medicaid coverage instead. For families earning above CHIP limits, explore Medicaid income limits guide or marketplace insurance options with premium tax credits.

Remember that CHIP enrollment is open year-round, so you can apply anytime your child needs coverage.