MO HealthNet for Kids (Missouri CHIP)

Last updated September 19, 2026 · By O.B.

MO HealthNet for Kids provides health coverage for Missouri children.

Missouri families may be eligible based on a child’s age, household size, and income. The Missouri Department of Social Services makes the final decision.

Missouri income limits, as of April 1, 2026

These are maximum annual income amounts by household size, as published by the Missouri Department of Social Services. The matching April 2026 PDF chart is also linked by the agency.

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MO HealthNet for Kids under age 1 (196% of the federal poverty level)$31,282$42,414$53,547$64,680$75,813$86,946$98,078$109,211
MO HealthNet for Kids ages 1–18 (148% of the federal poverty level)$23,621$32,027$40,434$48,840$57,246$65,653$74,059$82,466
State Children’s Health Insurance Program (150% of the federal poverty level)$23,940$32,460$40,980$49,500$58,020$66,540$75,060$83,580

Why age matters

A child under age 1 may qualify at a higher household income than a child ages 1–18 in the same household. For a family of four, Missouri publishes $64,680 for a child under age 1 and $48,840 for a child ages 1–18—a difference of $15,840 a year.

What CHIP costs

Missouri’s CHIP premium chart has monthly premium bands above 150%, above 185%, and above 225% of the federal poverty level. Published premiums run from $19 a month at the smallest published family size and lowest band to $576 a month at the largest published family size and highest band.

For a family of four, the official chart lists $39 a month in the >150% band, $127 in the >185% band, or $309 in the >225% band. Check the official chart for your family size. Missouri says premium information for families of 10 or more is available on request.

The chart is headed “CHIP Premium Change Notice” and says premiums change starting July 1; the July invoice carries the new amount. The full new premium must be paid or a child’s coverage may end. If your family size or income has changed, contact the Family Support Division Information Center at 1-855-373-4636.

How to apply

You can apply online through the MyDSS portal, by phone, by mail, or in person at a local Family Support Division resource center. After applying, you may need to verify income and household details.

Missouri Department of Social Services eligibility information →

What we could not verify

These are Missouri’s published figures as of the dates stamped on the income page and premium chart. Countable income is not the same as gross pay. The Family Support Division decides what income counts and makes the final eligibility decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CHIP part of MO HealthNet for Kids?

Yes. The Children’s Health Insurance Program is part of MO HealthNet for Kids.

Does MO HealthNet for Kids cost anything?

Some families may have no-cost coverage. Others may have a monthly CHIP premium under Missouri’s published premium chart.

Where do I apply for MO HealthNet for Kids?

You can apply through the MyDSS portal online, by phone, by mail, or in person at a local resource center.

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Check the official program page →

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