How to Apply for the CHIP Program in Texas

CHIP is Texas' health insurance plan for children. You can apply for CHIP in one of several ways, and you are not required to visit an office to complete the application. Before applying for CHIP, make sure you meet income eligibility requirements. As of 2010, an eligible family of four can earn a maximum of $3,675 per month and a family of eight can earn a maximum $6,169 per month. If you earn less than these amounts for the size of your family, you may qualify for state Medicaid instead.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of income
• Proof of expenses
• Proof of citizenship
• Copies of Social Security cards and birth certificates

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Determine your preferred application method. Applications for CHIP are accepted online, by mail, by fax or by phone. You can call 877-543-7669, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., to provide application information over the phone.

• 2

  Complete the application. You will answer questions regarding your income, expenses and household size. Be prepared to provide information about any children who need coverage under the plan.

• 3

  Attach proof of income, expenses and citizenship. You will also need to attach copies of Social Security cards. If you are requesting perinatal coverage, complete and attach the Report of Pregnancy form.

• 4

  Sign your application. Your application is not complete and cannot be processed without a signature. If you apply by phone, a copy of your application will be mailed to you to sign and return.

• 5

  Fax or mail your signed application and attachments. The fax number for application processing is 877-543-7669. The mailing address is Texas Health and Human Services Commission, P.O. Box 14200, Midland, TX 79711-9901.