|
Questions and Answers: Applying for KidsCare
What is KidsCare?
KidsCare is Arizona's Children's Health Insurance Program. It is available to children 18 years old or younger for a low cost. KidsCare is provided by the State of Arizona and is administered by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS).
What are the covered services?
- Doctor office visits
- Behavioral health
- Well Child visits and immunizations
- Dental screenings, treatments
- Physical exams
- Care for pre-existing conditions
- Hospital services
- 24 Hour emergency care
- Laboratory & x-rays
- Emergency medical transportation
- Specialist care
- Hearing tests, aids
- Eyeglass Exams
- Prescriptions and medical supplies
How much does KidsCare Cost?
All members of KidsCare (except Native Americans) must pay a monthly premium. KidsCare will cost no more than $25 a month for one child or no more than $35 a month for multiple children.
What are the KidsCare Eligibility Requirements?
Apply for KidsCare if your child is 18 years old or younger and:
What are the Income Guidelines?
Depending on your family size and income you may qualify for KidsCare or AHCCCS. Families who qualify for AHCCCS do not pay a premium.
|
May Qualify for AHCCCS
(Medicaid - No monthly premium) |
May Qualify for KidsCare
(Monthly premium) |
|
Family Size |
Monthly Family Income |
Annual Family Income |
Monthly Family Income |
Annual Family Income |
| 1 |
$851 |
$10,212 |
$1,702 |
$20,424 |
| 2 |
$1,141 |
$13,692 |
$2,282 |
$27,384 |
| 3 |
$1,431 |
$17,172 |
$2,862 |
$34,344 |
| 4 |
$1,721 |
$20,652 |
$3,442 |
$41,304 |
| 5 |
$2,011 |
$24,132 |
$4,022 |
$48,264 |
| 6 |
$2,301 |
$27,612 |
$4,602 |
$55,224 |
|
|
|
|
|
This chart shows you how much money your family can make using gross monthly income, which is all the money your family gets during a calendar month, before any taxes or deductions. If you are paid weekly, KidsCare counts 4.3 times your gross weekly pay. If you are paid every other week, KidsCare counts 2.15 times your gross biweekly pay.
What if Family's income is slightly over the Income Requirements?
Every year in April the Federal Poverty Levels increase. If a family is just over the income requirement, advise them to re-apply in April of next year.
How do I apply?
You can apply by mail and no office visit or interview is required. If KidsCare needs more information for your application, they'll contact you by e-mail, phone or mail.
Where do I get an application?
You can download or request an application online at www.azkidscare.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (543-7669) to have one sent to you. If you need help with your application, there are community organizations ready to answer your questions or assist you by using a web-based application system called Health-e-Arizona. A list of where to go for help with your application is available at www.azkidscare.gov.
What is the application process?
Once KidsCare receives your completed application, including the proof, the application will be reviewed as soon as possible. KidsCare applications are screened first for AHCCCS (Medicaid) and then KidsCare. If a family/child qualifies for AHCCCS, the application will be sent to the Department of Economic Security (DES) and they may ask you for more information. You may also apply for other benefits through DES, including Food Stamp assistance.
What documentation do I need to provide when applying for KidsCare?
Click herefor a complete list of documents you should bring when applying for KidsCare.
Is there anything else I should know about the application?
-
The same application can be used to apply for KidsCare and AHCCCS
-
An entire family can use one application
-
You must select a health plan on the application
-
You must sign, date and complete your application for it to be processed
How do I choose a health plan?
-
KidsCare applicants must select a health plan
-
Each county has different health plans to choose from. The application shows which plans are available in each county.
-
Each health plan provides the same quality services, but each may work with different doctors, dentists, and hospitals. When picking a plan find out which plan contracts with your doctor and contact the health plans for more information.
Does applying for or being a member of KidsCare affect immigration status?
No. According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), receiving most public benefits like KidsCare and AHCCCS will not affect your immigration status.
Where should completed applications be sent?
Return by mail to: KidsCare, 920 E. Madison, Mail Drop 500, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Return by fax to: 602.417. 5472
Can Parents also apply for health insurance?
Parents may also qualify for health insurance. KidsCare parents must pay a premium in addition to the amount paid for the child's coverage. When one or both parents and child are enrolled they will pay a “Family Premium” based on household size and income. The application requirements for parents are the same as for children and a parent can only be covered as long as the child is enrolled. For example, a family of four making $3200.00 a month before taxes would pay a monthly premium of about $160.00.
What if my child does not qualify for KidsCare?
Programs exist in Arizona to connect families with discounted medical services. In Maricopa County call 602-288-7564, in Pima County call 520-694-0418, or in Yuma County call 928-627-1120.
Community Health Centers are also available to provide services on a sliding-fee scale to individuals who are uninsured, low-income, or unable to qualify for other insurance programs. Call 602-253-0090 to locate the center near you.
|
