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Apply or Renew CHIP - Highmark Healthy Kids Coverage

If your child already has coverage, you’ll need to reenroll them in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The process is simple — you can complete it in three easy steps. 

childrens health insurance program renewal video intro

WATCH VIDEO

WATCH VIDEO IN SPANISH

See video disclaimer below1

Each year, you will receive a renewal reminder in the mail from DHS.  You will be able to submit your renewal in several ways: 

  • Online at dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS
  • Over the phone by calling 1-866-550-4355 Monday – Friday between 8 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. or by
  • Mail, fax, or dropping it off in person to your local CAO

Remember to include all the documents needed for your proof of income. We've created this handy checklist to help. Click here for the Spanish version.

If you have difficulty completing your renewal or providing the required documents by the due date, contact the Statewide Customer Service Center at 1-877-395-8930 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m; For Philadelphia: 215-560-7226

How do I apply?

Starting April 3, 2023, you will be able to submit applications and verification documents to DHS online via COMPASS, or by mail, fax, or dropping it off in person to your local CAO.

Note: Please do not send any applications, renewals, or verification documents to Highmark Choice Company after April 3, 2023.

No matter what way you choose, the following will be needed:

  • A list of all income for your household, including wages from working and unemployment benefits.
  • Social Security numbers and names for everyone living in your home.
  • Your daycare expenses.
  • Your work transportation expenses (if any).
  • Your private health insurance information (only if you’ve had coverage in the last 90 days).
  • Your most recent tax return if you have filed.

Three ways to apply and renew

Apply online with COMPASS

You can apply:

  • Online at dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS.
  • Using myCOMPASS PA Mobile App and uploading photos of verification documents.  You can download the application from the Apple or GooglePlay store for free.
VISIT COMPASS

Apply by phone

You can apply by calling DHS at 1-866-550-4355 or CHIP at 1-800-986-5437 and selecting option 2 to complete applications and renewals via phone. 

Apply by mail

You can apply by mailing, faxing, or dropping off items in person to your local CAO.

You can find the address, phone number, and hours of operation of your local County Assistance Office by visiting www.dhs.pa.gov/ Services/Assistance/Pages/CAO-Contact.aspx  or calling the Statewide Customer Service Center at 1-877-395-8930 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m; For Philadelphia: 215-560-7226

1By accessing this video, I understand that I am leaving the Highmark website and I will be re-directed to an external website operated by a third-party platform provider. I acknowledge that the platform provider may collect personal information about me, and about the video that I view, on their platform and may use and disclose this information in accordance with its privacy policy. I agree that Highmark is not responsible for the data collection and use practices of this third party.