State Children’s Health Insurance Program

The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) provides free or low-cost health insurance to children who do not qualify for Medicaid coverage, but whose families cannot afford private health insurance. Different states have different eligibility rules, but in general, uninsured children 18 years old and younger whose families earn up to $48,500 a year (for a family of four) are eligible.

Why is health insurance for children and teens important? Because children who have health insurance are more likely to:

• Receive the needed shots to prevent disease;
• Get treatment for recurring illnesses such as ear infections and asthma;
• Get preventative care to keep them well;
• Get sick less often; and
• Get the treatment they need when they are sick.

To receive an application, or get more information about the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, call the toll-free hotline 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669), or contact your state SCHIP program.