Premium Assistance for Medicaid and CHIP

If you are eligible for health coverage through your employer but find the premiums unaffordable, some states offer premium assistance programs to help cover these costs. These programs use funds from Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to assist eligible individuals in paying their health insurance premiums.

How to Access Premium Assistance

• Already Enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP: If you or your dependents are already enrolled, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office to inquire about available premium assistance.
• Not Enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP: If you or your dependents are not currently enrolled but may be eligible, contact your State Medicaid or CHIP office or call 877.KIDSNOW or visit insurekidsnow.gov to learn how to apply. If you qualify, ask the state about programs that can help pay premiums for an employer-sponsored plan.

Special Enrollment Opportunity

Once it is determined that you or your dependents are eligible for premium assistance under Medicaid or CHIP, your employer’s health plan must allow you to enroll in the plan. This special enrollment opportunity is available as long as you and your dependents are eligible but not already enrolled in the employer’s plan. You must request coverage within 60 days of being determined eligible for premium assistance.

Additional Resources