Children’s Medicaid and CHIP

Children in Texas might be able to get low-cost or free health coverage through Children's Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program.

Children's Medicaid is a health care program for children in low-income families. CHIP is a health care program for children without health insurance whose families earn too much to get Medicaid but cannot afford health insurance.

To get Medicaid or CHIP, a child must be age 18 and younger (in some cases children with disabilities age 19 and 20 can get Medicaid). They must also be a Texas resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen.

When you apply, we'll ask about your family's income to see which programs your child can get.

Services Covered by Medicaid and CHIP

• Regular checkups at the doctor and dentist
• Medicine and vaccines
• Hospital care and services
• X-rays and lab tests
• Vision and hearing care
• Access to medical specialists and mental health care
• Treatment of special health needs and pre-existing conditions

These services are provided by health plans. If your child gets Medicaid or CHIP, you will choose a plan from the ones available in your service area.

Children with Disabilities

Children with disabilities can get long-term services and supports through Medicaid. These services can include:

• Home care and personal care, like having someone help monitor your child's health and help them with daily activities.
• Having someone help take your child to their medical appointments.
• Nursing home care.
• A hospital for mental illnesses.
• A place of care for people with intellectual disabilities.

CHIP does not cover long-term services and supports.

If you have a child with a disability and make too much money to get Medicaid, you might be able to get coverage through the Medicaid Buy-In for Children program. MBIC allows families of children with disabilities to make a monthly payment to get Medicaid coverage.

Income Guidelines for Children's Medicaid

Your income is the money you get paid before taxes are taken out. Find your family size on the table below. If your monthly income is the same or less, your child might get Children's Medicaid.

Family Members (Adults plus children)