CHIP Eligibility Calculator

Check Children's Health Insurance Program eligibility by state, income, and household size.

$

Eligibility

Likely Eligible

Monthly Premium

$50.00

CHIP Details

Income as % of FPL151.52%
Premium Per Child$25.00
Monthly Premium$50.00
Annual Premium$600.00

Use the CHIP Eligibility Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

This calculator estimates if your child or children are likely to qualify for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in 2026. CHIP provides low-cost health coverage for children in families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Understanding eligibility is crucial for ensuring your children have access to essential healthcare services, preventing costly medical bills and promoting their well-being.

Our calculator primarily uses your household's Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for your family size in 2026. While specific state thresholds vary, most states cover children in families with incomes up to 200% or 250% of the FPL, with some states going even higher. The calculator will provide an estimated eligibility based on general CHIP guidelines, but final determination will be made by your state's Medicaid/CHIP agency.

Remember that this calculator provides an estimate; actual eligibility depends on your state's specific rules, which may include asset tests or other criteria. A common mistake is not including all household members or income sources when calculating MAGI, which can lead to an inaccurate estimate. Also, even if you don't qualify for CHIP, your children may still be eligible for Medicaid, so it's always worth applying.

Example: Family of Four in 2026

  1. 1 A family of four (two parents, two children) has a household Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $65,000 in 2026.
  2. 2 The 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for a family of four is approximately $31,200. This family's income of $65,000 is approximately 208% of the FPL ($65,000 / $31,200 = 2.083).
  3. 3 Based on this income, the children in this family are likely to be eligible for CHIP in most states. Many states have CHIP eligibility thresholds at 200% or 250% of the FPL.
  4. 4 This example demonstrates that even families with incomes above the FPL can qualify for CHIP, offering a valuable safety net for children's healthcare needs. Always apply to your state's program for a definitive eligibility determination.

Source: Benefits.gov · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CHIP and who qualifies?
CHIP provides low-cost health coverage for children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Income limits vary by state but generally cover families up to 200-300% of the federal poverty level.
How much does CHIP cost?
CHIP premiums are very low, typically $0-50 per month per family depending on income and state. Copays are minimal, usually $5-20 per visit. Families below 150% FPL often pay nothing. There are no deductibles in most CHIP programs.
What does CHIP cover?
CHIP covers routine checkups, immunizations, doctor visits, prescriptions, dental and vision care, hospital care, mental health services, and lab tests. Coverage is comprehensive and similar to what private employer plans offer for children.