Your children may qualify for free or very low-cost health coverage through Medicaid or CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program), even if you don't qualify for either program yourself. These are separate programs from the ACA Marketplace, and eligibility rules for children are more generous than for adults.
Medicaid covers children in families with lower incomes, often at no cost at all. CHIP fills the gap for families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but still need affordable coverage for their kids. Both programs are administered at the state level, so income thresholds vary depending on where you live.
Here's what both programs typically include for children:
- Routine checkups and well-child visits
- Vaccinations and immunizations
- Prescription medications
- Dental and vision care
- Emergency and hospital care
- Mental health services
One important detail: Medicaid and CHIP enrollment is open year-round. You don't have to wait for Open Enrollment to apply for your children. If your family's income or household size changes at any point during the year, your children's eligibility can be reassessed right away.
If your children don't qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, they can still be added to an ACA Marketplace plan during Open Enrollment or through a Special Enrollment Period. Depending on your income, your family may also qualify for premium tax credits to reduce the monthly cost.
Please note: Wise Health Choices specializes in ACA Marketplace enrollment and does not handle Medicaid or CHIP applications directly. For those programs, you can apply through HealthCare.gov or your state's Medicaid office.
Have questions about what coverage options are available for your children? Call us at (305) 330-1277 or See what you qualify for and we'll help you figure out the best path for your family.
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