Information checked: September 9, 2026.
CHIP covers eligible children in families whose income is too high for Medicaid but who may not be able to afford private coverage. There is no single national income cutoff because each state operates its program within federal rules.
Key answer: CHIP eligibility depends on the child's state, household size, countable income, age, insurance status, and program design. Medicaid.gov reports state eligibility levels ranging roughly from 170% to 400% of the federal poverty level. Use your state's current screening tool rather than a national dollar estimate.
Table of contents
- Why limits vary
- How household size affects the result
- Other eligibility rules
- How to check and apply
- Costs and coverage
- Frequently asked questions
Why limits vary
CHIP is jointly funded by federal and state governments. States can operate CHIP as a separate program, a Medicaid expansion, or a combination. They select eligible age groups and income levels within approved plans, so a child who qualifies in one state may face different rules after moving.
Dollar limits also change when federal poverty guidelines are updated. A percentage shown on an old article cannot establish 2026 eligibility.
How household size affects the result
Most financial determinations use Modified Adjusted Gross Income rules, but the tax household and program household can require careful treatment. Household size, expected annual income, pregnancy, and relationships may affect the calculation. Do not compare a four-person limit with a household the state counts differently.
Other eligibility rules
- Age and state residency
- Citizenship or qualifying immigration status
- Whether the child is uninsured or eligible under the state's program structure
- Financial and non-financial verification
- Waiting-period or premium rules where permitted
States may also cover pregnant people or children from conception through the end of pregnancy under approved CHIP options.
How to check and apply
- Use InsureKidsNow.gov or Medicaid.gov to open your state's official program.
- Enter current household and income information.
- Submit the application even if income seems close to the posted limit.
- Upload requested proof by the deadline.
- Read the eligibility notice and appeal instructions.
Medicaid and CHIP applications are accepted year-round. A Marketplace application can also transfer information to the state when a child may qualify.
Costs and coverage
CHIP benefits generally include routine checkups, immunizations, doctor visits, prescriptions, dental and vision care, hospital services, laboratory and X-ray services, and emergency care. Premiums and cost sharing vary, but Medicaid.gov states annual family premiums and cost sharing cannot exceed 5% of family income.
Frequently asked questions
Is there one 2026 CHIP income table?
No. State eligibility levels and program structures differ.
Can I apply outside Open Enrollment?
Yes. Medicaid and CHIP enrollment is available year-round.
What if my application is denied?
Read the state notice and use its hearing or appeal process by the stated deadline.
Final checklist
Check the official state program, use the correct household size and current income, submit requested proof, and keep the notice. Do not self-reject based on another state's table.
Related guides
- How to Check Your SNAP Application Status: State Portals and Contact Options
- WIC Income Guidelines 2026: Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Documents