How Can I Get Free Health Coverage for My Child?

Just about everyone agrees that it is vital for all children in the U.S. to have health care coverage. For low-income families, free health coverage for children is a necessary measure to ensure that children remain healthy and are able to receive care when they are sick. Several programs exist to help these families, and for those who meet requirements, signing up for them is not difficult.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine whether your child is eligible for Medicaid, which is jointly run by the federal and state governments. Each state has its own set of rules, and eligibility can be determined by income, age, and other factors. Any child in any state in a family of three that is living below the poverty level, which means an income of less than $18,310 (as of 2009), qualifies for Medicaid. Call  877-KIDSNOW to discuss your case with a specialist.

• 2

  Determine if you are eligible for CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program.) CHIP is also run jointly by state and federal governments and is administered by each state. The name of the program varies by state, but still falls under the CHIP heading. CHIP can supply affordable insurance for children who do not qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private health insurance. Call 877-KIDSNOW to determine eligibility and find providers in your state.

• 3

  Fill out an application. Whichever program is recommended, you will be required to fill out and send back an application by regular mail to receive health coverage for your children. The specialist on the phone will take down your information and send you the appropriate materials.

• 4

  Renew your child's application as per your state's requirements, usually every six to twelve months. As long as your child's data fits the requirements, he will be able to stay on the program until he reaches the cutoff age, which ranges from 8 to 21 depending on the program.