About Health Insurance for Children of the Unemployed
The loss of a job commonly means the loss of health insurance for the employee and the employee's children. There are programs available to help the unemployed get health insurance for their children.
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Children's Medicaid
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Children's Medicaid can provide health care coverage for free to children who qualify. Benefits begin immediately upon application approval.
Qualification for Medicaid
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Children's Medicaid is regulated by the state. Qualification is based on the financial status of the family. Contact your local State Health and Human Services Department for qualification requirements.
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CHIP
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Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a state run benefit program that provides health insurance for children under the age of 19. All children can qualify for CHIP regardless of income. It is designed for families with an income level that is too high to qualify for Medicaid.
CHIP Co-Pay and Enrollment Fee
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Co-payment and enrollment fee amounts for CHIP coverage depend on the family's income level. Common enrollment fees are about $50 per year. Co-pay amounts are generally $3 to $10. Co-pay and enrollment fees vary from state to state. Your state Health and Human Services Department can give you the co-pay and enrollment fee amounts for your state.
COBRA
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COBRA health insurance coverage is available to children of unemployed parents. COBRA insurance is Federally regulated. Employers must offer continuation of group health benefits to employees who leave for any reason except termination for gross misconduct. Premiums are higher due to discontinued employer contributions. COBRA benefits last for 18 months after the employee leaves his job.
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