What happens to CHIP coverage if I move out of Utah?
Will my child’s CHIP coverage continue if we move to a different state?
CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) is a state-run program, which means that coverage does not transfer from one state to another. If you move to a different state, your child’s CHIP coverage in Utah will end, and you will need to apply for CHIP or another health coverage option in your new state of residence. Here’s what you need to know about continuing your child’s health coverage when moving to a different state.
1. CHIP Coverage Is State-Specific
Each state administers its own CHIP program, with varying eligibility rules, benefits, and application processes. As a result, your child’s Utah CHIP coverage will not follow you to another state. When you move, you will need to apply for CHIP (or another healthcare program) in the new state, as your child will no longer be covered under Utah's CHIP program.
A. What Happens to Utah CHIP Coverage When You Move?
Utah CHIP coverage will end once you become a resident of a new state. It is important to notify Utah Medicaid/CHIP that you are moving to properly close your child’s coverage.
Each state has its own CHIP program, and you will need to apply in the new state as soon as you move to avoid a gap in your child’s health coverage.
2. Applying for CHIP in Your New State
Once you move, you will need to apply for CHIP (or another healthcare program) in your new state of residence. Here's what you should do:
A. Research CHIP Eligibility in Your New State
Check the eligibility requirements for CHIP in the new state, as income limits and coverage rules may differ from Utah's.
You can visit your new state’s Medicaid or CHIP website to find out what documents and information you’ll need to apply.
B. Submit a New Application
Once you move, you will need to submit a new CHIP application:
Apply online: Many states allow you to apply online through the state's Medicaid or CHIP website or healthcare.gov.
Apply in person: You can visit your local Department of Health or Social Services office in the new state to apply in person.
3. What If Your Child Doesn’t Qualify for CHIP in the New State?
If your child does not qualify for CHIP in the new state due to differences in eligibility rules, you may still have other healthcare options:
Medicaid: If your household income is lower than the new state's CHIP limits, your child may qualify for Medicaid instead.
ACA Marketplace Plans: You may be able to get subsidized health insurance through the ACA Marketplace if your child doesn’t qualify for CHIP.
Short-term insurance: While waiting for your child’s new CHIP application to be processed, you can explore short-term health insurance options to ensure coverage during the transition.
4. Notifying Utah CHIP of Your Move
Before you move, it’s essential to notify Utah CHIP that you are relocating. This will ensure your child’s Utah CHIP coverage is closed properly, preventing any potential issues with applying for coverage in your new state.
A. How to Notify Utah CHIP
Contact Utah CHIP customer service: Call 1-866-435-7414 to inform them of your move and request that your child’s CHIP coverage be terminated as of your moving date.
Request documentation: Ask for confirmation that your child’s coverage has been terminated, which may be useful when applying for CHIP in the new state.
5. Steps to Avoid a Gap in Coverage
To avoid a gap in your child’s health coverage when moving to a new state:
Apply for CHIP in the new state as soon as you relocate.
Notify Utah CHIP immediately to close your child’s current coverage.
Consider using short-term health insurance if there is a delay in processing your new CHIP application.
Key Takeaways:
CHIP coverage does not transfer between states. If you move to another state, your child’s CHIP coverage in Utah will end, and you will need to apply for CHIP in your new state of residence.
Each state has different CHIP rules, so you’ll need to check the eligibility requirements and apply for coverage in the new state.
Notify Utah CHIP of your move to ensure your child’s coverage is terminated properly and avoid delays in applying for new coverage.
For help understanding your options or applying for CHIP in a new state, schedule an appointment with a Tsunami Advisor here: Schedule an Appointment.
