Employee Benefit News for School, City and County Employers

DOL Updates Model CHIP Notice

Written by Jason Patzwald | Aug 18, 2026, 4:11:09 PM

The Department of Labor (DOL) has released a new model Employer CHIP Notice, current as of July 31, 2026.

 

Background

As a reminder, the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA) requires employers with group health plans in certain states to provide an annual notice about available Medicaid and CHIP premium assistance.

 

Furnishing Method

Employers may provide this notice separately or include it with eligibility materials, open enrollment materials, or the summary plan description.

 

Covered Employers

This annual notice applies to employers whose group health plans cover participants living in states that offer premium assistance, regardless of where the employer is located. The DOL’s model Employer CHIP Notice, current as of July 31, 2026, may be used as-is or adapted, provided it includes the required state contact information for eligible employees.

 

Employer Resources

The CHIPRA webpage offers the latest model notice in English and Spanish, plus a fact sheet, compliance guide, and other employer resources. Download the bulletin for more details.