Assistance guide · Reviewed October 4, 2026
Medicaid and CHIP: How to Find Coverage in Your State
Understand the difference between Medicaid and CHIP, where to apply, and what to do after submitting an application.
Start here
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide health coverage through federal-state partnerships. Eligibility categories and application routes differ by state, and coverage can depend on income, age, pregnancy, disability, household circumstances, and other program rules.
Use this guide to locate the responsible agency and organize the application process. Only the state Medicaid or CHIP agency, or an authorized Marketplace process, can make an eligibility decision.
Who this guide may help
- Children and teenagers who need health coverage
- Pregnant people seeking prenatal and maternity coverage
- Adults with limited income in states covering their eligibility group
- Older adults or people with disabilities who may qualify under additional rules
- Families whose employer coverage is unavailable or unaffordable
What to prepare before you apply or call
Requirements differ, so begin with the items below and wait for the official agency to tell you what else is needed. Never send sensitive documents to this website.
- Household names, relationships, and dates of birth
- Income and employer information requested for each applicant
- Current health coverage information
- State residence and identity information
- Citizenship or eligible immigration information for applicants when required
Step-by-step starting plan
Identify your state program
Start with Medicaid.gov’s state-help page or your state’s official health coverage portal. Confirm that the web address belongs to a government agency or recognized Marketplace.
Choose the appropriate application route
Depending on your state and household, you may apply through the state Medicaid agency or HealthCare.gov. A single application may screen household members for different programs.
Answer for each applicant
Household members can have different eligibility results. Include requested information accurately and distinguish people applying for coverage from people listed only for household or tax information.
Respond to verification requests
Check mail, email, portal notices, and voicemail. Send documents only through the method listed by the official agency.
Review enrollment instructions
If approved, read the effective date, plan-selection instructions, provider network, and renewal obligations. If denied, read the appeal or Marketplace options in the notice.
Important details people often miss
Children and adults may qualify under different rules
A parent can receive a different result from a child. Do not assume the entire household is ineligible because one person is not approved.
Coverage dates matter
Ask when coverage starts and whether your state can consider eligible medical expenses from an earlier period. Do not delay urgent medical care while waiting for an online status.
Renewals require attention
Keep contact information current and read every renewal notice. Return requested information by the stated deadline to reduce the risk of a coverage gap.
Questions to ask the agency or provider
- Which household members are being evaluated?
- Do you need any additional documents?
- What is the coverage effective date?
- Must I select a managed-care plan?
- What appeal or Marketplace options are listed if coverage is denied?
Official sources
Use these sources for current rules and application instructions. External sites have their own privacy practices.
This guide was reviewed on October 4, 2026. Program rules and availability can change; confirm important details with the responsible agency.