LaCHIP Application Instructions
The recommended way to apply for LaCHIP, and the best for those who have access to the Internet, is to go to the Louisiana Medicaid Online Application Center, create an account, fill out information and send an application form through this link:
https://bhsfweb.dhh.louisiana.gov/OlaPortalPublic/Public/public.aspx
Applying for LaCHIP online is the fastest way your application can reach the Department of Health and Hospitals. Also, having your application details thus stored online makes renewal (which must be done every 12 months) much easier - all one has to do is to review the details and make any changes required rather than complete a whole form again.
Another way is to download the application form, print it, fill it out and send it to the Medicaid office along with any required documents. For renewing applicants, the form can be found here:
www.bhsfweb.dhh.la.gov/onlinemanualspublic/Portal/FORMS_CATALOG.pdf
Acrobat Reader Software can be downloaded from here (You will need it to view and print out the application): www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html
The form should be mailed or faxed to:
LaCHIP Processing Office
P. O. Box 91278
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9278
Fax: 1-877-LA FAX US (1-877-523-2987)
An alternative is to call the Medicaid office on 1-877-2LaCHIP (1-877-252-2447) and give them your details over the phone so they can sign your children up for LaCHIP. You may also request a form through the same hotline.
Eligibility Requirements
A child eligible for LaCHIP is one who:
- Is aged 18 or below
- Is a resident of Louisiana
- Is a US citizen; or
- Is a legal alien
- Is not covered by any other health insurance
The income eligibility for LaCHIP is as follows:
| Family Size | Yearly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $27,925 |
| 2 | $37,825 |
| 3 | $47,725 |
| 4 | $57,625 |
| 5 | $67,525 |
| 6 | $77,425 |
| 7 | $87,325 |
| 8 | $97,225 |
For a household with more than eight people, $9,000 is added to the maximum yearly income per additional person. These incomes are considered before taxes.
All child support paid to the family must be signed over to the state.
Applicants are advised that they may still be eligible even if they earn more than these amounts because of the following and other deductions that are applicable to countable income:
- $90.00 deducted for every income unit member who's employed
- Up to $50.00 disregarded from child support payments
- If child support is paid out, the amount stated on the court order is directly deducted
- $200.00 deducted from Childcare payments for each child under the age of 2
If you feel that you were denied LaCHIP (or Medicaid) coverage unfairly, learn how to file an appeal by visiting this link: