Who's eligible for CHIP?
Pennsylvania's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), brought to you by Geisinger Health Plan Kids (GHP Kids), is committed to providing complete care to all eligible, uninsured children and teens statewide.
CHIP covers all PA kids. Any uninsured child or teen up to age 19 who doesn't qualify for medical assistance will be covered by our GHP Kids CHIP plan. Whether you've lost health insurance through your job or your benefits are too expensive, GHP Kids is there for your child.
Does your child qualify?
To qualify for health insurance coverage under the CHIP program, your child must be:
- Under 19 years of age
- A resident of Pennsylvania
- A U.S. citizen, U.S. national or lawfully present immigrant
- Uninsured (does not have any other health insurance coverage)
- Not eligible for Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
You must meet the guidelines based on household size and income.
Income guidelines
Learn if you are eligible for CHIP by checking the income/family size information.
Is your income too low for CHIP?
If your family income is too low for CHIP, your child may be enrolled in Medicaid. Learn more about GHP Family, our plan for Medical Assistance recipients.
Frequently asked questions
Is CHIP only for low-income families?
For most families, CHIP is free. For others, it is low cost. The cost of coverage is determined by your family size and household income. Either way, CHIP benefits are the same for all. No family makes too much money for CHIP coverage!
Can my child be denied coverage?
Your child cannot be denied coverage on the basis of a pre-existing condition if you meet the eligibility requirements for CHIP.
However, if your child has a documented serious illness or disability, they may be eligible for Medical Assistance rather than CHIP. In this case, GHP Kids and your doctor can help you obtain appropriate coverage.
How can I check on the enrollment or eligibility status of my child?
Questions about eligibility and application processing can be addressed by:
- Visiting dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS
- Using the myCOMPASS PA mobile app
- Calling the statewide customer service center at 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226 in Philadelphia
Reach out to us. We’re happy to help.
I recently gained legal custody of my grandchildren. They are uninsured and need health benefits. Can I apply for CHIP for them?
Yes! As the legal guardian who is exercising care and control of the children, you can apply for CHIP.
Contact us
Have questions? Our customer care team is happy to help. We're available: Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Saturday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Call
Call us at 866-621-5235
(PA Relay: 711).