Health Insurance for Children in Texas: What Options Are Available to Families?
Eligible children in Texas may receive free or low cost health insurance through Children’s Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program, also known as CHIP.
Shanti
8/21/20261 min read
Health Insurance for Children in Texas: What Options Are Available to Families?
Having health insurance helps families better manage the cost of routine checkups, doctor visits, prescription medications, and medical treatment when a child becomes sick or injured. Families living in Texas have several main options for obtaining health insurance for their children.
Adding a Child to an Employer Sponsored Health Plan, If your employer offers health insurance, you can usually add your child to your plan as a dependent.
Children can generally remain covered under their parents’ health insurance until age 26, even if they are married. However, their spouses cannot be added as dependents to the same plan.
In Texas, you may also be able to add your grandchild to your health plan if you claim the child as a dependent on your tax return. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, this coverage may continue until the grandchild turns 25.
Purchasing an Individual or Family Health Insurance Plan
If you do not have health insurance through your employer or need different coverage, you may purchase a plan for your child or your entire family.
An insurance company cannot refuse to offer an eligible health insurance plan because of a child’s preexisting condition, health status, or disability.
Families can apply for coverage through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Depending on household income, family size, and other circumstances, financial assistance may be available to help reduce the monthly premium.
Children’s Medicaid and CHIP
Eligible children in Texas may receive free or low cost health insurance through Children’s Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program, also known as CHIP. These programs may cover services such as:
• Doctor visits and routine checkups
• Prescription medications
• Dental care
• Eye examinations and eyeglasses
• Other medically necessary services
There is generally no enrollment fee for Children’s Medicaid. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, families enrolled in CHIP pay less than $50 per year. However, a copayment may be required for certain healthcare services.
For additional information or to submit an application, you may contact Texas Health and Human Services.
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