Medicaid and CHIP
Low-Cost Health Coverage
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with disabilities.
You can apply for and enroll in Medicaid and CHIP any time of year. If you qualify, your coverage can start immediately.
For more information or to submit an application, call 210-358-3350 or email CareLink@uhtx.com.
Medicaid and CHIP Eligibility
To be eligible to enroll in health coverage through Medicaid or CHIP, you must be:
- A U.S. citizen or have a valid immigration status
- A child under the age of 19*
- A parent or adult caring for a child
- 65 years or older or living with a disability
- Someone who has “aged out” of foster care until you reach age 26
*Age for children with a disability may differ
Pregnant women may apply for Medicaid for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women who are not eligible for Medicaid for Pregnant Women may be eligible for CHIP Perinatal.
To apply for Medicaid or CHIP, you will need:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport or any government issued ID)
- Proof of citizenship (social security card)
- Proof of family income (most recent check stub, social security award letter, pension checks)
- Residency proof you live in Texas (utility bill, mortgage statement, landlord verification)
Fast Facts
By connecting with CareLink, our outreach representatives will guide you through the process and submit applications on your behalf ensuring a more effective and efficient process. CareLink offers presentations to staff, parents and caretakers about Medicaid/CHIP guidelines and coverage information. For more information, please contact CareLink at 210-358-3350 or CareLink@uhtx.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicaid and CHIP
Is my child eligible for Medicaid or CHIP?
Children up to age 19 with a family income up to $48,500 per year (for a family of four) may qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Youth who have aged out of foster care can be covered under Medicaid until they reach age 26; there is no income limit for these youth.
Who can apply for Medicaid and CHIP for a child?
A parent, grandparent, guardian or other authorized representative can apply on behalf of a child. If you are a teenager living on your own, you may apply for Medicaid without the assistance of a parent or guardian.
Is there a limit on the amount of time my child or teen can remain enrolled in medicaid or chip?
Children and teens can stay covered as long as they qualify. You will need to renew their coverage once a year.
How do I know when to renew medicaid or chip coverage for my child or teen?
Texas Health and Human Services will contact you to let you know that it is time to renew your child’s coverage. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail when it is time to renew. Our representatives can also help check on your renewal date.
What if my family includes individuals who are immigrants?
State Medicaid and CHIP agencies can only collect, use and disclose information needed for the person applying for health coverage. You will never have to share citizenship or immigration status information for family members who are not applying for coverage.
Will applying for medicaid or chip benefits affect my immigration status?
Applying for or receiving Medicaid or CHIP benefits does not count in a “public charge” test. It will not affect a person’s chances of becoming a Lawful Permanent Resident. There is no public charge test for citizenship.
When can I enroll in medicaid or chip?
You can enroll in Medicaid or CHIP at any time during the year.
What if I am 65 or older or have a disability?
Seniors, adults with disability and some children with disabilities who do not have health insurance may be able to get health coverage through the Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities program.
Children with disabilities must be 20 or younger.
How do I apply?
Our outreach representatives specialize in assisting the community with their Medicaid or CHIP application. To start your application today, please contact CareLink at 210-358-3350 or CareLink@uhtx.com.