North Carolina Healthcare Assistance Programs

Beyond Medicaid, North Carolina residents access CHIP programs, community health centers, and marketplace coverage for uninsured individuals.

North Carolina Children's Health Insurance Program

North Carolina CHIP covers children in the gap between Medicaid and private insurance.

What it provides: Affordable health coverage for uninsured children

Assistance: Comprehensive child health, dental, and vision coverage.

Eligibility: Income limits above Medicaid; low monthly premiums.

Who may qualify:

  • Uninsured North Carolina children under 19
  • Families above Medicaid limits unable to afford private insurance
  • Children not eligible for employer coverage

Requirements:

  • Application through state benefits portal
  • Income documentation
  • Proof of residency

How to apply: Apply year-round through North Carolina benefits enrollment portal.

Official source: NC CHIP

Federally Qualified Health Centers

North Carolina FQHCs serve millions of patients annually regardless of insurance status.

What it provides: Sliding-scale primary care regardless of insurance

Assistance: Primary care, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy on sliding scale.

Eligibility: No one turned away; sliding fee based on federal poverty guidelines.

Who may qualify:

  • Uninsured and underinsured North Carolina residents
  • All income levels with fees based on ability to pay
  • Residents in underserved communities

Requirements:

  • Registration at local FQHC
  • Income documentation for sliding scale
  • Proof of residency

How to apply: Find nearest center at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.

Official source: HRSA FQHC Locator

Health Insurance Marketplace

North Carolina residents enroll through state or federal marketplace for subsidized coverage.

What it provides: Subsidized private health plans for residents

Assistance: Premium subsidies averaging hundreds per month.

Eligibility: Premium tax credits reduce monthly costs.

Who may qualify:

  • North Carolina residents not eligible for Medicaid or employer coverage
  • Households with income 100–400% FPL
  • Self-employed and gig workers

Requirements:

  • Application during open enrollment or qualifying life event
  • Income verification
  • Plan selection

How to apply: Enroll at North Carolina marketplace or HealthCare.gov during open enrollment.

Official source: NC Marketplace

Related national guides

More North Carolina guides

All North Carolina program guides