Texas offers Medicaid and CHIP health coverage, helping families access doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and preventive services. Through Your Texas Benefits, low-income Texans can quickly check eligibility and apply for these essential programs.
This guide explains what Texas health care benefits are, who qualifies, and how to apply. You’ll also learn about coverage options, costs, and how technology is improving access across the state.
Looking for more Texas assistance programs? Check out our guides on SNAP Food Benefits, TANF Cash Help, WIC Food Benefits, and HHSC Support Services to check eligibility and apply online.
What Are Your Texas Health Care Benefits?
Your Texas Benefits connects eligible Texans to programs that reduce medical costs and improve access to care:
- Community Health Clinics: Affordable or free medical services for residents who don’t qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. They also help with applications.
- Medicaid: Free coverage for low-income families, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and long-term care.
- CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program): Low-cost coverage for children under 19, including doctor visits, vaccinations, dental, and vision care.
- STAR & STAR+PLUS: Medicaid-managed care programs. STAR focuses on preventive care for children and families, while STAR+PLUS provides additional support for seniors and disabled Texans, including nursing and in-home care.
STAR+PLUS ensures seniors and disabled Texans can access long-term care without financial gaps, and the Miller Trust is a crucial tool for those just above the income limits.
Who Qualifies for Free Health Insurance in Texas (Medicaid & CHIP)?
Many people searching for “free insurance in Texas” are actually looking for Medicaid or CHIP eligibility. In 2026, income limits for these programs are:
| Category | Monthly Income Limit (Family of 4) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Children’s Medicaid | $3,564 | Covers low-income families with children |
| CHIP | $5,386 | For families above Medicaid limits but still needing coverage |
| Pregnant Women | 198% FPL limit | Eligible for full coverage up to 12 months postpartum under House Bill 12 |
Tip: Income limits are based on gross monthly income before taxes. Infants and children often have higher eligibility thresholds, while parents face stricter limits.
Texas Medicaid & CHIP Income Limits
Many Texans ask, “Am I too rich for Medicaid?” Here are the official income limits for March 2025–2026:
| Category | Monthly Income Limit (Single Person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Children (0–1) | $2,583 | Highest eligibility to ensure infants receive coverage |
| Children (1–18) | $2,000 approx. | Varies by age and household size |
| Pregnant Women | $2,500–$2,600 | Adjusted by household size |
| Parents / Caretaker Relatives | $103–$196 | Much stricter eligibility limits |
| Adults (19–64) | $1,500–$1,600 | Depends on household size and local rules |
Tip: These limits are based on gross monthly income before taxes. Children under 1 have the highest limits, while parents face lower thresholds.
Extended 12-Month Postpartum Coverage in Texas
A major change in Texas Medicaid: As of 2024/2025, women now keep full Medicaid coverage for 12 months after giving birth (previously only 2 months).
This expansion, enabled by House Bill 12, ensures new mothers have access to medical care, prescriptions, mental health support, and postpartum follow-ups for a full year.
Texas Medicaid & CHIP Health Plans: 2026 Provider Updates
When you apply through Your Texas Benefits, you must choose a Managed Care Organization (MCO). Two of the most searched providers in 2026 are:
- Superior HealthPlan: One of Texas’ largest networks. Update address, income, or household changes through Your Texas Benefits first to ensure Superior receives the correct information.
- Wellpoint (formerly Amerigroup): Amerigroup has fully rebranded to Wellpoint. Benefits remain the same, but member ID cards now display the Wellpoint logo.
- Other Popular Plans: Molina Healthcare, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, and Community First remain widely used.
Key Advice for Your Health Plan:
- Use the New Name: Even if users search “Amerigroup,” clarify it’s now Wellpoint.
- Check Service Area: Availability varies by county; for example, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas has expanded STAR and CHIP coverage in 2026.
- Update Your Info: Notify Your Texas Benefits if you select a new plan to ensure coverage transfers smoothly without gaps.
Step-by-Step: How to Pick or Change Your Health Plan
- Stay Updated: Move counties or have a doctor network change? Update immediately to prevent coverage gaps.
- Log In: Access Your Texas Benefits.com.
- Go to Manage My Account: Select “Change Health Plan.”
- Review Options: Compare networks and benefits to find the best fit.
- Submit Your Choice: Confirm selection to finalize your plan.
How to Apply for Health Care Benefits
Applying for health care in Texas is simple, whether you prefer online or in-person methods:
Through the Your TexasBenefits.com portal
- Visit Your TexasBenefits.com, the official Texas HHSC online portal, to apply for Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP food benefits, TANF cash assistance, and other Texas state assistance programs, manage your application, check eligibility, and track benefit status online.
- Create an Account – Enter your personal information, including name, date of birth, Social Security number, and household details.
- Submit Application – Select programs you want to apply for and complete the online forms.
- Upload Documents – Provide proof of income, residency, or identification securely through the portal.
- Check Status – Monitor your application progress and receive notifications about approvals, renewals, or required updates.
The Your Texas Benefits mobile app also allows applicants to complete all these steps on smartphones and tablets, making it convenient for busy families or seniors.
Through the Your Texas Benefits mobile app
Applying online or via mobile is quick and convenient:
- Download: Get the Your Texas Benefits app.
- Scan: Use your phone to upload your ID and paystubs.
- Submit: Click Check Eligibility to save time.
- Track: Monitor your application, renewals, and updates directly from the app.
Bonus Feature: The app offers instant digital Medicaid or CHIP cards, so you can show your digital ID at the doctor’s office without waiting for the plastic card.
What Services Are Covered by Your Texas Health Care Benefits?
Your Texas Health Care Benefits cover essential medical services to keep you and your family healthy. The table below highlights what’s included under Medicaid and CHIP programs in Texas, showing how each service supports your overall well-being.
| Service Type | Covered by Medicaid/CHIP | Notes |
| Doctor Visits | Yes | Includes specialists, pediatricians, and OB/GYNs |
| Hospital Care | Yes | Covers emergency, inpatient, and outpatient services |
| Prescription Drugs | Yes | Includes both brand-name and generic medications |
| Dental and Vision (for children) | Yes | Available through the CHIP program |
| Pregnancy Care | Yes | Covers prenatal visits, delivery, and postnatal care |
| Mental Health and Counseling | Yes | Therapy, counseling, psychiatric support |
| Long-Term Care | Yes (100% for STAR+PLUS) | Includes nursing, home care; consider Miller Trust for higher-income applicants |
Note: STAR+PLUS fully covers long-term care for eligible seniors and people with disabilities.
Long-Term Care & STAR+PLUS in West Texas (Midland/Odessa)
For seniors in Midland, TX, and surrounding areas, long-term care is provided through STAR+PLUS. It covers nursing home care and in-home personal attendants.
If you are searching for “Medicaid long-term care benefits Midland TX”, note that the 2026 income cap for single applicants is approximately $2,982/month (300% of the Federal Benefit Rate).
Qualified Income Trust (Miller Trust): If your income is slightly above the limit, a Miller Trust allows you to qualify for full long-term care coverage while following Medicaid income rules.
How to Pick or Change Your Texas Health Plan
Texas residents enrolled in Your Texas Health Care Benefits can choose or change their health plan at any time. In 2026, the top options include:
- Superior HealthPlan, Molina Healthcare, & Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas: These remain top-rated choices statewide for STAR/CHIP and STAR+PLUS members.
- Wellpoint (formerly Amerigroup): This major rebrand is now complete, offering the same provider network under a new name.
Key Advice for Your Health Plan:
- Use the New Name: Even if users search for “Amerigroup,” clarify that it is now Wellpoint to ensure they recognize the correct logo on their 2026 member ID cards.
- Check Your Service Area: Availability varies by county. For example, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas has significantly expanded its footprint in STAR and CHIP programs for 2026.
- Update Your Info: If you select a new plan, notify Your Texas Benefits to ensure your coverage transfers without any gap.
If you need to change your plan, it’s easy to do and can be done completely online. Follow the steps below to update your health plan:
- To update your plan, start by logging in to your account at Your Texas Benefits.com.
- Next, go to the “Manage My Account” section and select “Change Health Plan.”
- You’ll then see a list of available providers in your area—review each option carefully to find the one that best fits your needs.
- Once you’ve made your choice, submit your selection to finalize the update to your health plan.
If you move to a new county or your doctor changes networks, you can update your plan immediately. This helps your Medicaid or CHIP coverage continue without any breaks in care.
By following these steps, you can ensure your Medicaid or CHIP coverage continues seamlessly, giving you peace of mind and uninterrupted access to care.
How to Contact Your Texas Benefits Customer Service
Sometimes, it’s easier to talk to a real person. If you have questions about your benefits, lost your card, or need help logging in, here are the official numbers you can call:
| Service | Contact Number |
| Texas Benefits Customer Service | 1-877-541-7905 |
| Medicaid Help Line | 1-800-252-8263 |
| CHIP Member Support | 1-800-647-6558 |
| HHSC Office Locator | hhs.texas.gov |
All lines are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
You can also use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to upload documents, check benefits, or chat with support directly from your phone.
Your Texas Health Care Benefits Mobile App
The Your Texas Benefits App is a convenient way to manage your benefits anytime, anywhere. Available on both Android and iOS, the app lets you:
- Check your eligibility and benefit status.
- Renew Medicaid or SNAP benefits.
- Receive renewal reminders.
- Upload proof of income or residency securely.
- Access your digital Medicaid card instantly.
The app is free and officially managed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), ensuring your personal information remains private and protected.
Instant Digital ID: You can show your digital Medicaid or CHIP card at the doctor’s office directly from the app. No need to wait for the plastic card to arrive in the mail
Additional Health Programs in Texas
Beyond Medicaid and CHIP, Texas also provides additional programs that focus on specific health needs and populations:
- Texas Women’s Health Program – Offers preventive care and family planning services for women.
- Primary Health Care Services Program – Provides affordable basic medical care for adults.
- Family Planning Program – Gives access to contraception and health screenings.
- Epilepsy and Kidney Health Programs – Support Texans with chronic conditions.
- Supportive Palliative Care – Helps patients who need comfort-focused medical support.
- Texas No Wrong Door – Connects seniors and individuals with disabilities to available care services.
These programs often work alongside Your Texas Benefits, ensuring Texans receive complete and coordinated care.
Major Health Care Issues in Texas and How the State Is Working to Improve Them
I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for families in rural areas to find nearby doctors or afford prescriptions.
Here’s how Texas is tackling these challenges:
- Telehealth expansion: Virtual visits reduce travel time.
- Mobile medical units: Reaching communities that lack hospitals.
- Price transparency reforms: Helping patients compare treatment costs.
- Provider incentives: Encouraging more doctors to practice in rural Texas.
It’s not perfect yet—but progress is real, and technology is helping bridge the gap every year.
FAQs
You can apply online at Your Texas Benefits.com, through the mobile app, or by visiting a local HHSC office. Applications are free and available in English and Spanish.
It covers doctor visits, hospital care, medications, pregnancy services, mental health, and long-term care for eligible residents.
Yes. Many community health centers and state programs like Medicaid and CHIP offer free or low-cost coverage depending on your income.
Medicaid serves low-income individuals of all ages, while CHIP focuses on children from families who earn too much for Medicaid but still need affordable health coverage.
Conclusion: Health Care Is a Right, Not a Luxury
Health care benefits aren’t just about forms—they’re about peace of mind. In this guide, I’ve shared how you can use Your Texas Benefits to manage coverage, cut costs, and get the care your family needs. Visit www.YourTexasBenefits.com today to take control of your health and stay protected.