How to apply for Texas Medicaid

Last verified: June 2026

Four ways to apply for Texas Medicaid

What documents you'll need to apply

HHSC will ask you to verify identity, residency, income, and other facts during the application. Gather these before you start to avoid delays:

• Social Security number (SSN) for each person applying — or proof you have applied for one
• Proof of identity: driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or birth certificate
• Proof of Texas residency: utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail with your current address
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigration status: birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
• Proof of income for all household members: recent pay stubs (last 30 days), employer letters, self-employment records, or Social Security award letters
• Proof of disability (if applying for MEPD): Social Security disability award letter or medical records
• Medicare card and any other health insurance information, if you have it

Not every document on this list will be required for every application. HHSC may be able to verify some information electronically through data-matching with federal and state agencies. Bring what you have — a caseworker will tell you if anything additional is needed.

How long does approval take?

Federal regulations at 42 CFR 435.912 require states to process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications for people with disabilities may take up to 90 days. HHSC will send a written notice when a decision is made — approving, denying, or requesting additional information.

If HHSC requests more information (a Request for Information, or RFI), you generally have 10 days to respond. Missing that deadline can result in denial. Respond as quickly as possible and keep copies of everything you submit.

Pregnant women may receive expedited processing under HHSC policies, given the time-sensitive nature of prenatal coverage. If you are pregnant, tell the caseworker or indicate this prominently in your application.

Step-by-step: applying online at YourTexasBenefits.com

1. 1

   Create an account

   Go to YourTexasBenefits.com and select "Apply for new benefits." Create a free account with your email and a password. You can also use an existing account if you have applied before.

2. 2

   Complete the application

   Answer questions about every member of your household: names, dates of birth, SSNs, income, and current health insurance. A single application covers Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and other programs simultaneously.

3. 3

   Upload or submit verification documents

   Upload photos or scans of required documents directly through the portal. Alternatively, mail or fax them to your local HHSC office. Keep the confirmation number from your submission.

4. 4

   Await the eligibility decision

   HHSC will process your application and mail a written notice. You can also check status online at any time. Respond promptly if HHSC requests additional documents.

5. 5

   Choose a health plan (if approved)

   If approved, you will receive instructions to choose a managed care plan (STAR, STAR+PLUS, or STAR Kids) available in your service area. Call the Texas Enrollment Broker (Maximus) at 1-800-964-2777 if you need help choosing. You have a limited window — if you do not choose, you will be auto-assigned to a plan.

What to do if your application is denied

If HHSC denies your application, you have the right to appeal. Your denial notice will include instructions for requesting a State Fair Hearing. The request must typically be made within 90 days of the denial notice. At the hearing, you can present evidence and challenge the decision before an impartial HHSC hearings officer.

Free legal help for Medicaid appeals is available through Texas Legal Services Center (tlsc.org) and local legal aid organizations. If you believe HHSC made an error, do not ignore the denial — appeal it.

What to expect after you submit

Under 42 CFR 435.912, HHSC must process most Medicaid applications within 45 days. Applications based on disability may take up to 90 days. Coverage typically starts on the first day of the month you applied if found eligible.

1. 1

   Application received

   HHSC records your application date — this date determines your coverage start month if approved. Keep your confirmation number.

2. 2

   Data verification

   HHSC attempts to verify identity, income, and residency electronically through SSA, IRS, and state wage records. If successful, no further documents are needed.

3. 3

   Request for Information (if needed)

   If HHSC cannot verify electronically, they issue an RFI. Respond within 10 days. Missing this deadline pauses your application and can result in denial.

4. 4

   Eligibility determination

   HHSC mails a written notice approving or denying your application. If approved, you'll receive instructions for choosing a health plan (STAR, STAR+PLUS, or STAR Kids).

5. 5

   Choose a managed care plan

   Contact the Texas Enrollment Broker — Maximus — at 1-800-964-2777 to choose from plans available in your service area. If you do not choose within the selection window, you will be auto-assigned to a plan.