Frequently Asked Questions

MO HealthNet for Kids, Missouri's Health Insurance Program for Children

• What is MO HealthNet for Kids?

  MO HealthNet for Kids is a health insurance program for children of low-income families.

• Who is eligible?
  • Children, ages birth to 19, whose family income is under 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible.
  • Some children must be uninsured to qualify. View the eligibility chart
• Do you count student loans, grants, work-study, graduate fellowship and parental support as income?

  Student loans, grants and income from undergraduate college work-study programs are not considered income. Graduate fellowships and parental support in the form of money given directly to the student is considered income.

• Are adopted children eligible for MO HealthNet for Kids?

  Yes, adopted children are treated the same as natural children.

• What does it cover?

  Children will receive all medically-necessary services including:

  • primary, acute and preventive care;
  • hospital care;
  • sports physicals;
  • physical, occupational and speech therapy;
  • dental;
  • home and community-based services such as nursing and personal care;
  • medical equipment and supplies;
  • pharmacy;
  • vision care;
  • lab and x-ray;
  • and behavioral services such as outpatient counseling and inpatient psychiatric treatment.

  Children whose monthly gross family income is under 150% of the federal poverty level are also eligible for non-emergency medical transportation.

• What doctors take MO HealthNet for Kids?

  Families in certain areas of the state will choose coverage through a health plan; others will receive services from MO HealthNet approved providers. View Health Plan Service Providers For Your Region .

• Can I take my child off my insurance as the premiums are so high and it doesn't cover dental or pharmacy?

  In order to be eligible, children whose family income is more than 150% of the federal poverty level must be uninsured for six months or more (some exceptions apply).

• Are children born in the US eligible for MO HealthNet for Kids if they meet other eligibility requirements?

  Yes, any child born in the US is a citizen and potentially eligible for MO HealthNet and other services. Their parents' legal status is not required.

• Does a child have to be a US citizen to be eligible for MO HealthNet benefits?

  The child must be either a citizen or an eligible qualified alien to qualify for MO HealthNet.

• What does it cost?

  There is no cost for children whose monthly gross family income is under 150% of the federal poverty level. For children whose family income is above 150% of the federal poverty level, a monthly premium is required. Families will pay no more than 5% of their annual income for premiums in a year. If out-of pocket expenses reach the 5% limit, the family will not have to pay the premium for the rest of the year.

• How do I apply?

  There are several ways to get an MO HealthNet Application form:

  • Apply online.
  • Download and print an application to fill in and mail.
  • Call toll free at 1-888-275-5908 to request an application.
  • Visit your local Family Support Division office to apply.
• Is the application complicated? What will I need to apply?

  No, the application is only one page (front and back) and everything can be handled through the mail or by phone.

  Social Security numbers, verification of income (check stub, federal income tax form, etc.), and immigration status of those applying for MO HealthNet for Kids are needed to process an application.

• When will I know if my children are approved?

  Applications are processed within 30 days. You will be notified in writing when a decision has been made.

• Is MO HealthNet for Kids a “public charge” issue for non-citizens?

  Non-cash benefits and special-purpose cash benefits that are not intended for income maintenance are not subject to public charge consideration. Such benefits include: MO HealthNet for Kids and immunizations. See a full list of benefits not subject to public charge.

• Puzzled by the MO HealthNet/MO HealthNet for Kids Terminology?

  View a printable guide explaining the various MO HealthNet terms and codes.