Who is eligible for Medicaid in Texas?
In addition to those with low incomes who are aged, blind, or disabled (receiving SSI benefits), the following populations are eligible for Medicaid in Texas:[efn_note]”Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, & Basic Health Program Eligibility Levels” Medicaid.gov. Accessed Feb. 4, 2025[/efn_note]
- Children aged 0-1: 198% of the federal poverty level (FPL)
- Children aged 1-5: 144% of FPL
- Children age 6-18: 133% of FPL
- Pregnant women: 198% of FPL
- Adults caregivers of children or adult relatives: 12% of FPL
- Children are eligible for either Medicaid or CHIP if their household incomes are up to 201% of poverty
Texas has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA, so adults under 65 who aren’t disabled or raising a child are ineligible for Medicaid regardless of how low their income is.
How can I enroll in Texas Medicaid?
- You can start the process through HealthCare.gov, either online or by phone at 1-800-318-2596. (Use this option if you’re under 65 and don’t have Medicare; you will be directed to the Texas Medicaid agency if HealthCare.gov believes you’re eligible for that coverage.)
- You can enroll through the Medicaid website maintained by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
- You can also download and print a paper application, or request that one be mailed to you, by using this page on the Texas Medicaid website.
How to apply for Medicaid
You can apply for Medicaid anytime in one of the following ways:
- Find and check with your state's Medicaid agency to apply. You must be a resident of the state where you are applying for benefits.
- Create an account with the Health Insurance Marketplace and fill out an application. If it looks like anyone in your household qualifies for Medicaid, your information will be sent to your state agency. They will contact you about enrollment.
What documents and information do you need for your Medicaid application?
When you apply for Medicaid, you may need to provide certain information or documentation. But what is required depends on your state. Your state Medicaid agency may ask for:
- Your name and date of birth
- Your Social Security number
- Your monthly payment amounts for rent, mortgage, or utilities
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
- Proof of income, like paystubs or W-2s
- A verification of what other government benefits you receive
- Information about an insurance plan your employer has offered you or an insurance plan you currently have
Find and check with your state's Medicaid agency to learn what documentation they require.
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Texas Medicaid Help
Moving to Texas, Medicaid requirements incomprehensible
You should not move to Texas if you're looking for medicaid. In a non expanded state typically you'll need to be receiving SSI or have child dependents and your income can't exceed 100% FPL. NY is 138%. That said, income $12761+ gets you the APTC subsidy on the marketplace.
There are 12 states with no intent to expand in 2021, most of them are in the south. If you're an adult 19-64, a non-expanded medicaid state is not a good choice.
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