Costs

• The KidCare program is based on income eligibility. Income-eligible families pay $15 or $20 monthly, depending on household size and income. Families that are over the income limit have the option of paying a $159 monthly premium for insurance on their children. Depending on the category of KidCare, there may be small co-pays of $5 to $10 for doctor visits. Children who are members of federally-recognized American Indian or Alaskan Native tribes may qualify for KidCare at no cost.
  
  

Medicaid

• Medicaid is a type of health care insurance for low-income families. Even children covered by other health insurance may qualify for Medicaid. Eligibility is based on income and family size. In addition, the family cannot have assets worth over $2,000. For example, a family of three can qualify if its monthly household income is $1,526 or less as of 2010.
  
  

Applications

• Applications are available at most county health departments and at branches of the Department of Children and Families. They are also available for download and printing online at the Florida KidCare website. Some KidCare programs are limited, and applicants are served on a first-come first-serve basis. Medicaid is always available.