How to Apply for Texas Medicaid
Updated August 2026
Most Texans apply through YourTexasBenefits.com. The online application lets you start, save, and return to your application at any time, check your status, upload documents, and manage your benefits once enrolled. A free mobile app (iOS and Android) is also available for the same functions.
45 days
Processing deadline
YTB.com
Apply online 24/7
2-1-1
Apply by phone
H1010
Paper form (mail/fax)
Four ways to apply for Texas Medicaid
- Online — YourTexasBenefits.com: Create an account, complete the application, and submit. You can upload verification documents directly through the portal. Available 24/7.
- Phone — dial 2-1-1: Call 2-1-1 (TTY 711) statewide, toll-free. HHSC benefits specialists can assist with applications over the phone. Hours vary; the line is available most days. Spanish-language assistance is available.
- In person — HHSC benefits office: Visit an HHSC benefits office in your county. Find your nearest location at hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/find-us. Staff can assist with completing your application and accepting documents on the spot.
- Paper — mail or fax: Download Form H1010 (Texas Health and Human Services Benefits Application) from the HHSC website. Complete it and mail or fax it to your local HHSC office. Processing is slower than online submission.
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Texas Medicaid
- Apply online: YourTexasBenefits.com
- Phone: 2-1-1 (TTY 711)
- Find an HHSC office: hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/find-us
- Enrollment broker (plan selection): Maximus, 1-800-964-2777
Related guides
How to Apply
A step-by-step walkthrough of the application process and what you'll need.
Read more →Eligibility Requirements
The income, household, age, and state rules that determine who qualifies.
Read more →Approval Time
Federal processing deadlines and what affects your approval timeline.
Read more →