WV CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program)
Last updated August 2026
WV CHIP is the Children's Health Insurance Program for West Virginia. It covers children in working families who earn too much for Medicaid but still need affordable coverage. Apply through WV PATH or the Bureau for Medical Services' Applying for Healthcare page.
The basic rules are clear. WV CHIP covers children who are under age 19, live in West Virginia, have no other health insurance, and are not eligible for WV Medicaid.
There are three cost tiers, set by your family's monthly income. WVCHIP Gold has the lowest costs, with minimal copays. It covers a family of four with monthly income up to $4,125, or a family of three up to $3,415.
The middle tier is WVCHIP Blue, which has all copays. It covers a family of four with monthly income up to $5,803, or a family of three up to $4,804.
The top tier is the WV Premium Plan, also with all copays. It covers a family of four with monthly income up to $8,250, or a family of three up to $6,830. So even higher-earning families can often get their children covered.
The coverage is real health insurance for kids. It includes doctor visits, dental services, autism disorder coverage, ADHD services, and prescription drug plans. WV CHIP also serves pregnant women in working families who lack other coverage and are not Medicaid-eligible.
Phone 1-877-982-2447
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Children and pregnant women in West Virginia working families who lack other coverage and are over the Medicaid income limit
- One wvPATH application checks a child for both Medicaid and WV CHIP, so apply even if you are unsure which one fits
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at WV PATH or through the BMS Applying for Healthcare page.
- 2
Confirm your child is under 19, lives in West Virginia, and has no other insurance.
- 3
Report your family's monthly income so the state can set your tier.
- 4
Turn in proof of income and residency.
- 5
Watch for your approval letter and your tier assignment.
What to have ready
- Your child's proof of age and West Virginia residency
- Proof of family income
- Proof that the child has no other health insurance. The office confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for WV CHIP?
Children under 19 who live in West Virginia, have no other health insurance, and are not eligible for WV Medicaid.
How much does it cost?
There are three tiers by income. Gold has minimal copays, Blue and the Premium Plan have all copays. A family of four can qualify with income up to $8,250 a month.
What does it cover?
Doctor visits, dental services, autism disorder coverage, ADHD services, and prescription drugs.
Where do I apply?
Through WV PATH or the Bureau for Medical Services' Applying for Healthcare page.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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