The fastest way to apply is through the Texas Health and Human Services website or by phone, but the method depends on your situation

Texas adults can apply for Medicaid through three main routes: online at YourTexasBenefits.com, by phone at 211 (which connects you to local resources), or in person at your county Health and Human Services office. The online portal is usually fastest — you create an account, fill out your household information, and upload documents. Processing typically takes 15 to 30 days once you submit everything, though it can be longer if the agency requests more information.

Your application goes to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, not a federal office. They handle income verification, citizenship checks, and residency confirmation. You'll need to know your household size, monthly income, and Social Security number before you start. If you're applying for emergency Medicaid (for urgent medical conditions), the process is faster but covers only that emergency visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com, by calling 211, or at your county HHS office — online is usually the quickest option.
  • You'll need proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number.
  • Texas Medicaid covers adults who earn up to a certain income level, which varies based on family size and whether you have dependents.
  • Processing takes 15 to 30 days after you submit a complete application, but the agency may ask for additional documents that can extend this timeline.
  • If you're denied, you can request a hearing to appeal the decision within 30 days of the denial letter.

What documents you need before you start

Gather these items before opening your application. You'll need proof of income — recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), tax returns from the past year, or a signed letter from your employer stating your monthly income. If you're self-employed, bring tax returns and bank statements. If you have no income, you'll need a statement explaining that.

You also need proof of Texas residency. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with a Texas address all work. Your Social Security number is required for every household member you're listing. If you're applying on behalf of someone else, you'll need documentation showing you have authority to do so — a power of attorney or guardianship papers.

If you're applying for Medicaid based on a disability or medical condition, gather medical records or letters from your doctor. These aren't always required upfront, but having them ready speeds things up if the agency asks.

Income limits and what counts as income

Texas Medicaid for adults is limited to people earning below a certain threshold. The exact limit depends on your household size and whether you have dependent children. For adults without dependent children, the income limit is lower than for parents. Texas does not expand Medicaid to all low-income adults — only certain groups may have access to, such as parents, pregnant people, children, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Income includes wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security, unemployment benefits, and child support. It does not include food stamps, housing assistance, or most one-time payments. The agency counts your household's total income, not just your own. If you're married and living together, both incomes count even if only one person is applying.

If your income is above the limit but you have high medical expenses, you may still may have access to under a different program. Ask about Medicaid for people with disabilities or the Texas Health Insurance Pool when you call 211.

How to apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com

Go to YourTexasBenefits.com and click "Apply for Benefits." You'll create a login using your email address and a password. The system will ask for your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and household information. Enter the names and birthdates of everyone living in your home, even if they're not applying.

Next, you'll answer questions about your income, expenses, and assets. Be as accurate as possible — the agency cross-checks this information with employers and banks. Upload your documents directly into the portal: photos of pay stubs, your lease, your ID. Make sure the images are clear and readable. The system will tell you if a document is too blurry or cut off.

After you submit, you'll get a confirmation number. Save it. You can log back in to check your application status, and the agency will send you messages through the portal if they need more information. Respond to those requests within the deadline they give you, or your application may be denied.

Applying by phone or in person

Call 211 and say you want to apply for Medicaid. The representative will take your information over the phone and can mail you forms to sign and return, or they can schedule an appointment at your county HHS office. This method is slower than online but works if you don't have internet access or need help understanding the questions.

To apply in person, find your county HHS office on the Texas Health and Human Services website and call ahead for an appointment. Bring all your documents with you — originals or clear copies. An may be able to access worker will review everything on the spot and tell you what else they need. In-person appointments can take 1 to 2 hours, but you leave knowing exactly what happens next.

What happens after you submit your application

The agency will verify your income by contacting your employer or checking tax records. They'll confirm you live in Texas and check your citizenship or immigration status. This verification process usually takes 15 to 30 days. During this time, you may receive a message asking for more documents or clarification — respond as soon as you can.

Once they finish, you'll get a letter in the mail saying you're approved, denied, or approved with conditions. If you're approved, your Medicaid coverage usually starts on the first day of the month after approval. You'll receive a card in the mail with your member ID number. If you're denied, the letter will explain why and tell you how to appeal.

If you don't hear anything after 45 days, call the agency or log into YourTexasBenefits.com to check your status. Sometimes applications get stuck waiting for a document you didn't know you needed to send.

What to do if you're denied or need to appeal

If your application is denied, you have 30 days from the date on the denial letter to request a hearing. You don't need a lawyer, but you can bring one. Write a letter to the address on your denial notice saying you want to appeal, or call the number listed. Include your case number and a brief explanation of why you think the decision was wrong.

At the hearing, an administrative judge will review your case. Bring any new documents that support your situation — recent pay stubs, medical records, or a letter from your employer. The judge will make a decision within 30 days. If you're still denied, you can appeal to the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, though this is less common.

While you're appealing, your coverage may continue depending on the reason for the denial. Ask the agency whether you stay covered during the appeal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a Texas citizen to get Medicaid?

No. You must be a U.S. citizen or a may have access to immigrant with a valid visa or work permit. Undocumented immigrants do not may have access to for regular Medicaid, but Texas does cover emergency Medicaid for anyone who needs urgent care, regardless of immigration status.

What if my income changes after I'm approved?

Report the change to the agency within 30 days. If your income goes up, you may lose coverage or have to pay more. If it goes down, you might get more help. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person at your county office.

How long does Medicaid coverage last once I'm approved?

Coverage is usually good for 12 months. After that, you'll need to renew. The agency will send you a renewal form in the mail about 30 days before your coverage ends. Fill it out and send it back to stay covered.

Can I apply if I'm already working?

Yes. Medicaid is based on income, not employment status. If your wages are below the limit for your household size, you can apply. Some people work part-time or earn low wages and still may have access to.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You'll need one to apply for Medicaid. If you don't have one, contact the Social Security Administration to request one. This can take several weeks, so apply early if you're planning to get Medicaid.