Can my non-citizen child get CHIP in Utah?

Is CHIP available for non-citizen children living in Utah?

Yes, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) is available for certain non-citizen children living in Utah, as long as they meet specific eligibility requirements. Non-citizen children may qualify for CHIP if they are considered qualified non-citizens and meet other program criteria. Here’s what you need to know about CHIP eligibility for non-citizen children in Utah.

1. Eligibility for Non-Citizen Children

Non-citizen children can qualify for CHIP in Utah if they are considered qualified non-citizens under federal guidelines. These guidelines include various immigration statuses that allow children to access healthcare programs like CHIP.

A. Qualified Non-Citizen Statuses

Non-citizen children who fall under the following categories are generally eligible for CHIP:

• Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs): Also known as green card holders.

• Refugees and Asylees: Individuals who have been granted asylum or refugee status.

• Victims of Human Trafficking: Children with a T visa or similar status.

• Certain Battered Immigrants: Children and their parents who fall under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

• Cuban/Haitian Entrants: Children from specific immigration categories from Cuba or Haiti.

• Parolees: Non-citizen children who have been paroled into the U.S. for at least one year.

B. Five-Year Waiting Period

In many cases, qualified non-citizen children must have held their legal immigration status for five years before they can qualify for CHIP. However, there are exceptions to this rule for certain groups, including:

• Refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking: These groups are exempt from the five-year waiting period and may qualify for CHIP immediately upon receiving their immigration status.

2. Other Eligibility Criteria for CHIP

In addition to being a qualified non-citizen, your child must meet the other standard eligibility criteria for CHIP in Utah:

A. Income Requirement

• Your household income must fall between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Here’s an example of the income limits based on household size for 2024:

Household Size138% of FPL (Minimum Income)200% of FPL (Maximum Income)1$20,120$29,1602$27,214$39,4403$34,307$49,7204$41,400$60,000

If your household income is within this range, your child may be eligible for CHIP, even if they do not qualify for Medicaid.

B. Residency Requirement

• Your child must be a resident of Utah. You’ll need to provide proof of residency, such as a lease agreement or utility bill.

C. Uninsured Requirement

• Your child must be uninsured at the time of applying for CHIP. If they have access to affordable employer-sponsored insurance, they may not qualify for CHIP.

3. How to Apply for CHIP for Non-Citizen Children

To apply for CHIP for a non-citizen child in Utah, follow these steps:

• Submit an application: Apply online at medicaid.utah.gov or healthcare.gov. You can also apply in person at your local Department of Workforce Services (DWS) office.

• Provide proof of immigration status: You’ll need to provide documentation proving your child’s qualified non-citizen status, such as a green card, asylum approval notice, or other official immigration documentation.

• Submit proof of income and residency: You’ll also need to provide verification of your household income and Utah residency.

4. Coverage and Benefits for Non-Citizen Children Under CHIP

Once enrolled, non-citizen children receive the same comprehensive coverage as citizen children under CHIP. This includes:

• Doctor visits: Routine checkups, vaccinations, and preventive care.

• Hospital services: Inpatient and outpatient care, including emergency services.

• Prescription drugs: Coverage for necessary medications.

• Dental and vision care: Routine exams, cleanings, and eyeglasses.

• Mental health services: Counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care.

5. What If My Child Is Not Eligible for CHIP?

If your child does not meet the CHIP eligibility criteria due to their immigration status, you may still have other healthcare options:

• Emergency Medicaid: Non-citizen children may qualify for Emergency Medicaid, which provides coverage for urgent medical needs.

• ACA Marketplace Plans: If your household income is above CHIP limits, you may be eligible for subsidized health plans through the ACA Marketplace, depending on your immigration status.

Key Takeaways:

• Non-citizen children who are classified as qualified non-citizens may be eligible for CHIP in Utah.

• CHIP is available to children in families with incomes between 138% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

• To apply, you’ll need to provide proof of your child’s immigration status, household income, and residency.

For help determining if your non-citizen child qualifies for CHIP or to start the application process, schedule an appointment with a Tsunami Advisor here: Schedule an Appointment.