Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health insurance at little or no cost to South Dakota children who meet certain eligibility guidelines.
CHIP provides health insurance coverage to uninsured children whose family income is up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level (monthly income of $3,675 for a family of four). Children who already have private health insurance may also be eligible for CHIP paying deductibles, co-payments and other medical services not covered by their private policy.
CHIP covers:
* Doctor Appointments
* Hospital Stays
* Dental and Vision Services
* Prescription Drugs
* Mental Health Care
* Other Medical Services
Applying for CHIP and Other Important Information:
Applications must be mailed or faxed. If you would like an interview, you may request one.
* Download and print CHIP Application
* If a member of your family receives SSI DO NOT count them in the family size and DO NOT count their income.
* Earnings of a child (under age 19) are not counted if living with a parent or other adult caretaker.
* Most student loans or grants are not counted as income.
* The start date of medical coverage depends on the date the application is received by the Department of Social Services in your county.
* Medical coverage may go back 3 months prior to the application date.
* Send proof of all income and expenses from the last 30 days along with the application. Also, send proof of expenses for child support paid and child care paid while working.
* The fifth paycheck, if paid weekly, or the third paycheck, if paid every other week, is NOT counted.
If you need assistance filling out the application or have questions, contact your local DSS office. For more information, you can also call 1-800-305-3064.
Covered Services:
* Click here for the complete list of covered services.
Children who are eligible are entitled to full Medical Assistance coverage and Well-Child Care Exams. The program may go back and cover medical services a child received three months prior to applying for CHIP. The start of medical coverage is based on the date the application is received in the DSS office serving your county.
Other CHIP Information:
* CHIP Brochure
* CHIP Frequently Asked Questions
* CHIP Income Guidelines
* Annual CHIP Report
* State CHIP Plan
* Letter to CMS
* Medical Assistance Outreach Contacts
MedElig@state.sd.us
