Families with children covered by CHIP should take note: 2026 will bring important changes to the Children’s Health Insurance Program across the country. From expanded dental benefits to improved enrollment tools, the updates are designed to make CHIP easier to use and more comprehensive for kids.
New federal rules mean all state CHIP plans must offer comprehensive dental and vision coverage—including braces when medically necessary and yearly eye exams with glasses when prescribed.
If your child’s dental or vision needs have been only partially covered in the past, 2026 is the year to re-check what’s available. Families will have less out-of-pocket expense for services like orthodontics and glasses.
2. Automatic eligibility checks for newborns
Beginning in 2026, CHIP will use hospital-based automatic enrollment systems in all states, ensuring newborns are connected to coverage before leaving the hospital.
How this helps:
No more paperwork delays for new parents. Your baby’s coverage can start right away, helping avoid gaps in care during those first crucial months.
3. Co-pay relief for preventive services
CHIP plans nationwide will stop charging copays or deductibles for routine well-child visits, immunizations, and certain mental health screenings.
The impact:
Preventive care is now completely cost-free, so there’s no reason to delay annual check-ups, recommended shots, or developmental screenings.
4. Streamlined re-enrollment options
States are now required to offer automatic annual renewals or one-click online re-enrollment tools. Most families will no longer need to submit lengthy paperwork every year to keep coverage active.
What to expect:
Fewer headaches and less risk of your child losing coverage due to missed deadlines or paperwork snags.
5. New behavioral health coverage requirements
CHIP plans must provide greater access to counseling and telehealth for children experiencing anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges.
Why this matters:
If your child needs mental or behavioral health support, you’ll find more choices for covered care and less waiting time to get help.
6. Income eligibility updates
Several states are raising CHIP income thresholds in 2026, allowing more middle-income families to qualify. Income charts will be easier to read and use during application and renewal.
For you:
Families who previously made slightly too much to qualify for Medicaid or CHIP may now be eligible for lower-cost insurance for their kids.
7. Easy access to translation and interpretation
All CHIP providers must offer translation and interpretation services at no cost, making it easier for non-English speaking families to get information and care.
Remember:
If you or your child are more comfortable in a language other than English, help will be readily available.
Plan ahead, stay covered
With these changes, CHIP is set to provide better, easier-to-access coverage for America’s children in 2026. Be sure to contact your state’s CHIP office for the latest local updates, and check your benefits and coverage options before open enrollment. A little preparation now means your child will be ready for a healthy year ahead.
