SCHIP Application Instructions
Apply Online
You can apply online for insurance of your child through the CHIP website. You'll need to create an account at www.chipmedicaid.org before your child can apply online. If you already have an account, just enter your login details and your child can start the procedure.
Before you apply for health insurance of your child under this program, you'll have to check if your child qualifies to receive benefit under CHIP. You can see if your child will qualify or not at this link:
www.chipmedicaid.org/en/Can-I-Get-It
If your child qualifies for benefits under CHIP, you will have to fill out an application. You can apply online through this link:
www.texkid.org/CISS
After you have successfully applied for CHIP you will receive a confirmation email. Typically, confirmation email can take up to 45 days. You can track your case during this period by providing your case number and password on the website. You'll soon receive an email with welcome packet.
You can then pick a plan and choose your child's primary healthcare doctor. You'll be able to pick a dentist and a main (general) doctor.
After picking your doctor's, you'll have to fill out enrollment/transfer forms. You'll start by picking a medical and a dental plan. Sign the forms and return them before the due date. In case you are required to pay a fee for enrollment, your packet will include a coupon for payment. It's easy to pay the fee since you can either pay online or pay by check.
For further help and assistance, you can utilize official helpline at 1-877-543-7669. Phone lines remain open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you need someone in person to help you with things, you can find someone near you at this link:
www.chipmedicaid.org/en/Get-Help
Eligibility Requirements
Your child must fit the following criteria to receive benefits under CHIP.
- Your child must be 18 years of age or younger
- Your child must be a Texas resident
- Your child must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Birth Certificate
In order to apply for CHIP, you should ensure that you have your child's birth certificate. You will be required to send it to HHSC. You can also fax the certificate at 1-877-542-5951.
If you can't send the birth certificate for some reason, you can send copy of U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or hospital record of birth.
If your child was born in Texas, you will not have to send this certificate.
Income Eligibility
In order to qualify for benefits under CHIP, a child's family income should be less than 200% of federal poverty level.
You can see the full chart for incoem limits here:
www.chipmedicaid.org/Files/income_guildeines_chart.png