Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Texas

Assistance for Disabled Single Mothers in Texas: A 2025 Field Guide That Gets to the Point

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on Texas programs built for people with disabilities. It does not rehash general help open to everyone. Every section starts with what to do first, then gives backup plans. Keep notes, save receipts, and always ask for written decisions.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Stop a shutoff today: Call your electric company and ask for medical “Critical Care” or “Chronic Condition” status, then request a deferred payment plan. Apply for LIHEAP energy help through the state’s CEAP network the same day using the “Help for Texans” search. Call the Public Utility Commission consumer line if the provider won’t work with you. Use these pages and numbers: PUC critical care info, TDHCA CEAP, PUC consumer hotline. (puc.texas.gov)
Secure disability-based Medicaid now: Apply online at Your Texas Benefits and pick “Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD).” If you can work some, ask about “Medicaid Buy‑In for Adults (MBI).” Read the state pages for rules and income caps: MEPD overview, MBI adults. Expect 45–90 days if a disability decision is needed; call weekly to check status. (hhs.texas.gov)
Keep a roof overhead: If you’re at risk of losing housing, ask for a reasonable accommodation (extra time or policy flexibility) in writing. Get on a disability housing path: ask your STAR+PLUS service coordinator or local mental health authority to refer you to Section 811 PRA if you fit the target groups, and check Mainstream or NED vouchers with your housing authority. Use TDHCA’s 811 page, HUD’s Mainstream fact sheet, and your CoC via HUD Exchange. (tdhca.texas.gov)

Quick help box — phone numbers and links to keep handy

Medicaid ride line: If you don’t have a plan, call 1-877-633-8747; if you do have a plan, call your plan’s transportation number listed on your ID card. Use HHSC’s NEMT page and Spanish NEMT. (hhs.texas.gov)
Medicaid Managed Care Ombudsman: 1-866-566-8989 for complaints about STAR+PLUS services, plan denials, or delays; use Ombudsman page. (hhs.texas.gov)
2‑1‑1 Texas: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905 for local disability resources, rental help screening, and CEAP providers; use 211Texas.org and HHSC CRCG resource finder. (crcg.hhs.texas.gov)
Social Security (SSI/SSDI): 1-800-772-1213; current 2025 SSI amounts are listed on SSA’s SSI 2025 page and SSI overview. (ssa.gov)
Disability Rights Texas (appeals, accommodations): 1-800-252-9108; visit disabilityrightstx.org for intake options and guides.

How to get disability-based Medicaid in Texas fast

Texas runs several Medicaid paths tied to disability. If you already get SSI, you usually get Medicaid automatically. If you do not, apply for “Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities (MEPD)” and, if you work, consider “Medicaid Buy‑In for Adults (MBI).” Start at Your Texas Benefits and read HHSC’s MEPD page and MBI details. Expect 45 days for most cases, up to 90 days if a disability decision is needed; ask the worker to flag urgent medical issues. (hhs.texas.gov)

Who qualifies and how the money limits work

MEPD basic rules: You must be a Texas resident with a qualifying disability under Social Security rules and meet income/assets limits. MEPD also includes categories like Pickle, Disabled Adult Child, and other “Social Security Exclusion” paths that can keep Medicaid when SSI stops. Read the state overview on HHSC’s MEPD page and the STAR+PLUS handbook excerpts on upgrades to home- and community-based services. (hhs.texas.gov)
MBI for working adults: 2025 income thresholds reflect “countable earned income” under 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (currently $3, 138/ m o n t ha sse tM a rc h 1, 2024) an d reso u rce l imi t ss h o w nin HH SC ’ s han d b oo k . P re mi u m s a re ba se d o n co u n t ab l e in co m e w i t ha$ 500 cap. See MBI page and HHSC’s Budget Reference Chart. (hhs.texas.gov)
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) if you have Medicare**:** QMB, SLMB, and QI can pay Medicare premiums (and for QMB, deductibles and coinsurance). 2025 limits are posted in HHSC’s handbook (100% FPL for QMB and higher for SLMB/QI) and resource caps inflation‑adjusted each January. Start with HHSC’s QMB income limits and MSP resource limits. (hhs.texas.gov)

Required documents

Proof of identity and Texas residency: ID, lease, or utility bill; use Your Texas Benefits.
Medical proof of disability: SSA letters or doctor records; see SSA disability rules.
Income and assets: Pay stubs or award letters; HHSC uses guides in MEPD handbook.

How to apply

Online: Use Your Texas Benefits.
By phone: Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905 for office locations via 211Texas.org.
Timelines: HHSC has 45 days to process most cases; 90 days if a disability decision is needed. Ask for status updates every 10 days. See STAR+PLUS handbook timeline note. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Managed Care Ombudsman (1‑866‑566‑8989) if delays block needed care. File a complaint and ask for a supervisor review. Use Ombudsman help and request a Fair Hearing through Your Texas Benefits. (hhs.texas.gov)

How to get in‑home help (attendants, personal care, and supports)

The fastest path to in‑home help for many disabled adults is through their Medicaid health plan in STAR+PLUS. Attendant help may also start through Community First Choice (CFC) or Community Attendant Services (CAS) while you wait for waiver slots.

STAR+PLUS basics: Adults 21+ with disabilities get acute care plus long‑term services through a Medicaid managed care plan. New STAR+PLUS plan contracts took effect Sept. 1, 2024, in some areas, so you may need to re‑select a plan. Start here: STAR+PLUS member page and Spanish STAR+PLUS. (hhs.texas.gov)
STAR+PLUS HCBS waiver: If you meet “nursing facility” level of care, your plan can request the home‑ and community‑based waiver for extra services like respite and home mods. Eligibility also involves a cost limit tied to RUG scores and an unmet need for at least one HCBS service. See the eligibility section. (hhs.texas.gov)
Community First Choice (CFC): For people on full Medicaid who need help with daily living and meet an institutional level of care. It adds personal assistance, habilitation, emergency response, and support management. Read HHSC’s consumer pages on CFC and provider overview CFC resource. (hhs.texas.gov)
Community Attendant Services (CAS): State plan attendant care for people who have medical need for PAS but don’t qualify for full Medicaid. You get PAS only—not full Medicaid—under special income rules. See CAS provider page and handbook entry CAS policy. (hhs.texas.gov)
Consumer Directed Services (CDS): You can hire and manage your own attendants under STAR+PLUS, CFC, PHC, or CAS. Review CDS option. (hhs.texas.gov)

Steps to start services

Call your STAR+PLUS plan: Ask for a Service Coordinator assessment for PAS/CFC and, if needed, a STAR+PLUS HCBS referral using the MN/LOC tool. Use the STAR+PLUS page and your plan’s member line.
No plan/No Medicaid yet: Apply to MEPD and ask your doctor to complete Form H1200 items as requested; ask HHSC for an urgent decision due to health risk. See MEPD page.
Prefer to self‑direct: Tell the caseworker you choose CDS. Start with CDS resources.

Typical timelines

Expect a service coordination visit within about 30 days after plan enrollment and additional time for MN/LOC approval. Policy timelines and cost limits are in the STAR+PLUS handbook. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Managed Care Ombudsman at 1‑866‑566‑8989. Ask for an internal appeal and a State Fair Hearing if services are denied or delayed. Use the Ombudsman site for instructions. (hhs.texas.gov)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Texas today

Call your Retail Electric Provider (REP) first and ask for a deferred payment plan. If you rely on electric‑powered medical equipment or need electric for life‑threatening conditions, apply for “Critical Care Residential Customer” or “Chronic Condition” status through your utility (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, or TNMP). Use the PUC’s rule page for details and your utility’s form: PUC rule §25.497, Oncor info, TNMP application page. (puc.texas.gov)
Apply for CEAP (LIHEAP energy help) through TDHCA’s local network for bill payments and crisis help (including weatherization). Call 1‑877‑399‑8939 (landline best) or use “Utility Bill Payment Help” in Help for Texans. Read the Community Affairs program page. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
Escalate if needed: Contact the PUC Consumer Protection team at 1-888-782-8477 if your REP refuses reasonable arrangements. Use the PUC consumer page and the Electricity FAQs. (puc.texas.gov)
Phone/Internet discounts: “Lifeline” gives up to $9.25/month off eligible service; Texans apply through providers or the state portal. Start at Lifeline Support and read the Texas note on how to get started. See the PUC Lifeline page. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your city or county Community Action Agency via 211Texas.org for local funds or church programs. If power loss would endanger you or your child, tell your doctor and ask for a letter supporting Critical Care status while your PUC form is pending, then share it with your REP along with the PUC rule. (puc.texas.gov)

SSI/SSDI and work‑incentive quick facts for 2025

SSI 2025 maximum: $967/ m o n t h f or anin d i v i d u a l,$ 1,450/month for an eligible couple. Check SSA’s official 2025 rates and SSI benefits page. If you get SSI in Texas, you also get Medicaid. Keep your award letters for CEAP and housing applications. (ssa.gov)
Work incentives: 2025 SGA is $1, 620/ m o n t h (n o n ‑ b l in d) an d T W P i s$ 1,160/month. Review SSA Red Book 2025 updates and What’s New. If you can work some, ask SSA about Ticket to Work and PASS plans. (ssa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If SSA denies or flags overpayments and you disagree, appeal fast and ask for waiver. Call 1‑800‑772‑1213 and get help from Disability Rights Texas or legal aid via TexasLawHelp.

Disability‑friendly housing options that actually exist

Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA): Project‑based apartments set aside for non‑elderly adults with disabilities linked to Medicaid or state services. You cannot self‑apply; you must be referred by a qualified Referral Agent (e.g., your STAR+PLUS service coordinator or Local Mental Health Authority). Start at TDHCA’s 811 page and read the referral process page. (tdhca.texas.gov)
Mainstream or NED Vouchers: Tenant‑based vouchers for non‑elderly people with disabilities through local housing authorities. Watch for waitlist openings and preferences; read HUD’s Mainstream overview. Keep your contact info updated on all PHA portals. (hud.gov)
Stability or FUP/FYI Vouchers if you qualify through a Continuum of Care or child‑welfare partner. See HUD’s pages for Stability Vouchers and Foster Youth to Independence. (hud.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your STAR+PLUS coordinator or LMHA to add you to any disability housing interest lists and push a Section 811 referral if you fit a target group. Also sign up for PHA waitlist alerts and use 211Texas.org to find emergency shelters if you’re in crisis.

Assistive tech, communication, and equipment

STAP phone equipment vouchers: The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program issues vouchers for basic specialized phone equipment (including speech‑generating devices via a separate form). Applications are certified by approved professionals. Use HHSC’s STAP page and the current Form 3906/3907 instructions (effective 1/2025) on HHSC Forms. Vendor reimbursement rules and voucher values are posted in HHSC’s manuals. (hhs.texas.gov)
Texas Technology Access Program (TTAP): Free 35‑day device loans (shipping both ways) to try assistive tech before you buy; device demos, reuse, and financing. Start on TTAP and see the short‑term device loan and alternative financing pages. (ttap.disabilitystudies.utexas.edu)
Relay and language access: Use Relay Texas by dialing 7‑1‑1, and ask every agency for interpreter services or large‑print forms. Check HHSC Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services contacts on the DHHS page. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Vocational Rehabilitation counselor if VR will fund job‑related assistive tech; start at Texas Workforce Solutions‑VR. (twc.texas.gov)

Transportation when you can’t drive

Medicaid rides: If you have Medicaid, you can get rides or gas money for covered medical care by calling your plan’s ride line or 1‑877‑MED‑TRIP (1‑877‑633‑8747) if you don’t have a plan yet. See HHSC’s NEMT page and Spanish NEMT. You can also designate a driver and get gas cards after approval. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your STAR+PLUS coordinator to authorize extra rides for HCBS services or call 2‑1‑1 for local disability transit. If you use a power chair, request a wheelchair‑accessible vehicle through your plan; keep the authorization number from your NEMT request. (hhs.texas.gov)

Money to make your home safer and more accessible

Amy Young Barrier Removal Program (AYBR): One‑time grants up to $22,500 for accessibility modifications for low‑income Texans with disabilities, whether you rent or own; administered by local nonprofits and governments. Read TDHCA’s AYBR program page and story page that explains typical projects and grant caps. Call 1‑800‑525‑0657 to find a local administrator. (tdhca.state.tx.us)
Weatherization (WAP): Helps cut energy costs by sealing air leaks, insulating, and repairing or replacing unsafe HVAC. Start on TDHCA’s WAP page, then apply with your local agency via Help for Texans. (tdhca.state.tx.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your STAR+PLUS plan about minor home modifications under HCBS or CFC, and check city housing rehab programs linked from TDHCA’s Housing Resource Center. (tdhca.state.tx.us)

Taxes, plates, and legal rights that save time and money

Homestead exemption for disabled persons: School districts must give an extra $10,000 exemption on your homestead if you qualify as disabled under Social Security rules. Use the Residence Homestead form with your appraisal district. See the Texas Comptroller’s exemption overview. (comptroller.texas.gov)
100% Disabled Veteran exemption: If VA rates you 100% (or IU), you may get a total homestead property tax exemption. Review the Comptroller’s 100% disabled veteran FAQ. (comptroller.texas.gov)
Disabled parking placard/plates: Apply with Form VTR‑214 at your county tax office (blue placard for permanent disability). Read TxDMV’s disabled parking page and check the FAQ for fees and renewal. (txdmv.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For denials or delays, ask your appraisal district for a supervisor review and submit medical proof. For placards, go back to TxDMV with your doctor’s updated statement and the VTR‑214 form. (txdmv.gov)

Tables you can scan fast

Table 1 — Disability Medicaid paths in Texas (adults)

Program	Who it fits	Key points	Where to start
MEPD (Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities)	Disabled adults with limited income/assets	Follows SSA disability rules; automatic with SSI; others apply and may need disability review	MEPD page, Your Texas Benefits (hhs.texas.gov)
MBI (Medicaid Buy‑In for Adults)	Disabled adults who work	Countable earned income under 250% FPL with monthly premium up to $500	MBI page, Budget chart (hhs.texas.gov)
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI)	Low‑income Medicare beneficiaries	Pays Part B premiums (and for QMB, deductibles/coinsurance); income/resource caps apply	QMB limits, MSP resources (hhs.texas.gov)
STAR+PLUS HCBS	Adults meeting nursing‑facility level of care	Extra services like respite, home mods, flexible supports	STAR+PLUS (hhs.texas.gov)

Table 2 — Getting in‑home help: compare options

Option	What you get	Financial path	How to access
STAR+PLUS PAS/CFC	Attendant and habilitation, emergency response	Full Medicaid; institutional level of care for CFC	Call plan and request assessment; CFC overview (hhs.texas.gov)
STAR+PLUS HCBS	PAS, respite, nursing, therapies, home mods	Full Medicaid; HCBS eligibility with cost limit	Ask coordinator for MN/LOC assessment; Handbook 3200 (hhs.texas.gov)
CAS (Community Attendant Services)	PAS only (no full Medicaid)	Special income pathway	Apply through HHSC regional community services; CAS (hhs.texas.gov)

Table 3 — Housing pathways for disabled non‑elderly adults

Program	Type	How to get in	Notes
Section 811 PRA	Project‑based units tied to services	Referral from STAR+PLUS SC, LMHA/LIDDA, or other qualified agent	Limited to specific metro areas; strong coordination with services; Section 811 (tdhca.texas.gov)
Mainstream/NED Voucher	Tenant‑based	Apply at PHA when waitlist opens	Watch PHA websites and social feeds; HUD overview (hud.gov)
Stability Vouchers	Tenant‑based via CoC/PHAs	Through Coordinated Entry; must meet criteria	Focus on homeless/at risk or DV survivors; Stability Vouchers (hud.gov)

Table 4 — Communication and assistive tech

Resource	What it covers	Cost to you	Where to start
STAP vouchers	Specialized phones, accessories, and some SGDs	Voucher covers base equipment value; you may pay the difference	STAP page (hhs.texas.gov)
TTAP device loans	35‑day loans to test devices	Free shipping both ways	TTAP loans (ttap.disabilitystudies.utexas.edu)
Lifeline discount	$9.25/month off phone/internet	Free to apply; must recertify	Lifeline Support (lifelinesupport.org)

Table 5 — Property, plates, and parking

Benefit	Who qualifies	Key point	Learn more
Disabled person homestead exemption	Disabled under SSA rules	$10,000 school district exemption	Comptroller exemption page (comptroller.texas.gov)
100% disabled veteran homestead	VA 100% or IU	Total homestead exemption	100% DV FAQ (comptroller.texas.gov)
Disabled parking placard	Disability meeting state criteria	Use Form VTR‑214 at county tax office	TxDMV placards (txdmv.gov)

Table 6 — Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (clip/screenshot this)

Topic	Best first step	Backup
Medicaid disability	Apply at Your Texas Benefits	Call 2‑1‑1 or MEPD page (hhs.texas.gov)
In‑home help	Call your STAR+PLUS plan’s Service Coordinator	Ask HHSC about CAS; CAS info (hhs.texas.gov)
Shutoff	Ask REP for/Chronic** deferment	Apply CEAP via Help for Texans and call PUC
Rides to care	Call plan ride line or 1‑877‑MED‑TRIP	Use NEMT page
Disability housing	Ask for Section 811 referral	Watch PHA pages for Mainstream

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

Use 211Texas.org to find nearby help and ask for disability‑focused programs. Pair that with statewide groups like Disability Rights Texas for legal advocacy and The Arc of Texas for peer guidance. If you have a mental health condition, call your Local Mental Health Authority via HHSC Mental Health or dial 9‑8‑8 for crisis help; use 988 Lifeline.

Easter Seals chapters support adults with disabilities with case management and resources; see Easter Seals Greater Houston and Easterseals Central Texas.
Centers for Independent Living provide skills training and advocacy; check REACH Dallas/Fort Worth and Coastal Bend CIL.
Faith networks (rent/utility help) include Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston‑Houston and Catholic Charities San Antonio.
Legal aid: Texas RioGrande Legal Aid and Lone Star Legal Aid handle housing, benefits, and DV safety planning.

Diverse Communities — tailored notes and contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for inclusive counseling and DV safety planning at The Montrose Center (Houston) and Resource Center (Dallas). Request name‑affirming ID help and reasonable accommodations when dealing with state agencies, and use Disability Rights Texas if you face discrimination.
Veteran single mothers: Connect with the Texas Veterans Commission Women Veterans Program for claims help and peer support, and ask about HUD‑VASH through your VA social worker via VA Texas. For property tax relief, study the Comptroller’s DV exemption.
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Some benefits depend on immigration status; still ask for emergency services and community care. For legal screening and language access, contact RAICES and use 211Texas.org to find ESL, childcare, and food resources.
Tribal‑specific resources: Reach out to your nation and local Indian Health/urban Indian programs: Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, Alabama‑Coushatta Tribe, and Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas. Many PHAs offer a Tribal Lifeline discount under Lifeline if you live on Tribal lands.
Rural single moms: Use telehealth, NEMT, and TTAP device loans to bridge distance. Your Workforce board and Texas Workforce Solutions‑VR can pay for travel to training or work gear; start at TWC VR.
Single fathers: Most disability programs are gender‑neutral. Use the same steps, and ask for parenting time accommodations in court if disability affects schedules. Check TexasLawHelp for forms.
Language access: Ask every agency for interpreters; HHSC and 2‑1‑1 provide language help. Use DHHS contacts and Relay Texas at 7‑1‑1.

Resources by Region (examples you can call now)

Houston area: Easter Seals Greater Houston, The Montrose Center, Harris County RIDES for reduced‑fare rides, and HHA portals for vouchers on HousingforHouston.com.
Dallas‑Fort Worth: REACH CIL, Resource Center Dallas, and Workforce Solutions DFW. Use Oncor for Critical Care status via Oncor page.
San Antonio: Any Baby Can of San Antonio (family support), AACOG/ADRC, and VIAtrans for paratransit.
Austin/Central Texas: TTAP device loans, Integral Care (LMHA), and Austin Habitat ReStore for low‑cost home materials.
El Paso: Project Amistad (transport/access), Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, and Sun Metro LIFT.
Rio Grande Valley: ACCESS RGV, Tropical Texas Behavioral Health, and CEAP providers via Help for Texans.
East Texas: Disability Service Center of East Texas, Buckner Family Hope Center, and AEP Texas Critical Care via your REP.
Panhandle/West Texas: ADRC Panhandle, Amarillo Cares, and VR contacts in Region 1 via TWC VR info.

Tip: When you contact any group, say you are a disabled parent and ask for disability‑specific help, accessible forms, and interpreter services if needed.

Common mistakes to avoid

Missing deadlines: Medicaid, STAP, and housing forms get denied if incomplete or late. Use Your Texas Benefits messages and set calendar alerts.
Not asking for a reasonable accommodation: Request extra time or alternate documentation formats with any agency; cite the ADA and use Disability Rights Texas templates.
Choosing prepaid electricity while medically vulnerable: Prepaid plans disconnect fast; Critical Care residential customers can’t use prepaid by rule. Read the PUC’s prepaid FAQ and critical care rules at PUC website and §25.497.

Reality Check — what to expect

Medicaid decisions can take time: Disability‑based cases may take up to 90 days. Call weekly, upload any missing proof, and keep copies. See HHSC’s timeline note in the STAR+PLUS handbook.
Waiver and housing lists are long: Section 811 PRA is limited to certain metro areas and units; Mainstream vouchers open occasionally and fill fast. Track openings and keep your contact info current. Check Section 811 and HUD programs.
Energy assistance is limited: CEAP funds vary by county and season; call early in the month and be ready with paperwork. Use CEAP page.

Always verify current availability before applying. Programs adjust rules and funding during the year.

Application Checklist — print or screenshot

Photo ID and proof of Texas residency: License, lease, or utility bill; use Your Texas Benefits.
Proof of income: Pay stubs, SSI/SSDI award letters, child support, or zero‑income statement.
Medical proof: Doctor notes, disability letters, meds list; for STAP, use Form 3906/3907.
Bills: Past‑due notices for CEAP, shutoff notice, or payment history; see CEAP info.
Housing documents: Lease, landlord contact, and any accommodation requests; check Section 811.
Transportation needs: Appointment dates, Medicaid ID, mobility needs for NEMT.

Troubleshooting — if your application gets denied

Get it in writing: Ask for the denial letter citing exact rule sections. Keep all pages.
Appeal on time: For Medicaid, request a State Fair Hearing by the deadline, keep benefits going if possible, and call the Managed Care Ombudsman at 1‑866‑566‑8989. Use Ombudsman help.
Bring backup: New medical notes, proof of bills, and any agency emails. For utilities, file a PUC complaint at 1‑888‑782‑8477 and reference §25.497.

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Texas Today — step‑by‑step

Call your REP and request a deferred payment plan. If you use medical equipment, say so and ask to file the Critical Care/Chronic Condition form right now. Use PUC electricity FAQ and your utility’s Critical Care page.
Submit the physician form: Doctors must send the critical care application directly to your TDU (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP, or TNMP). Temporary protection may apply while the TDU finishes review. See §25.497 and a utility example on TNMP’s page.
Apply for CEAP the same day and upload proof of the shutoff notice. Use CEAP.
Escalate to PUC if needed at 1‑888‑782‑8477 and document your case number. Use the PUC consumer page.

County‑specific differences that matter

Electric service territories: Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, and TNMP each process Critical Care forms and outage priorities. Check your TDU’s instructions (e.g., Oncor, TNMP) and follow their submission steps exactly.
CEAP local rules: Agencies set their own intake days and crisis priorities. Always ask when they accept new applications and whether they fund deposits, reconnection fees, or just usage. Use Help for Texans CEAP.

FAQs — Texas‑specific answers

What does STAR+PLUS cover that helps me live at home: Personal attendants, home mods, and respite if you qualify for HCBS; CFC adds habilitation and emergency response for full Medicaid members meeting institutional level of care. Start at STAR+PLUS and CFC.
How long will MEPD take: 45 days is common; if a disability decision is needed, up to 90 days. Keep uploading documents in your Your Texas Benefits account and call weekly. See HHSC’s timeline note in Handbook 3200.
Can I work and still get Medicaid: Possibly under MBI (with premiums) or if you keep SSI with work incentives. See MBI page and SSA’s Red Book updates.
How do I get on Section 811 PRA: You cannot self‑apply; your service coordinator or LMHA must refer you. Read TDHCA Section 811 and the Referral Agent page.
What if my REP still threatens disconnection: File a PUC complaint and ask about medical status protections while your Critical Care application is processed. Use PUC consumer page and §25.497.
What are the 2025 SSI amounts: $967/ m o n t h (in d i v i d u a l),$ 1,450/month (eligible couple). See SSA’s 2025 SSI table.
How do I get phone equipment if I can’t hear or speak well: Apply for STAP vouchers with a certified application and redeem at approved vendors. See HHSC STAP and Find a STAP Vendor.
Is there help to try assistive devices before buying: Yes. TTAP mails loans free both ways for 35 days. Use TTAP loans.
How can I get rides if I have Medicaid and no car: Call your plan’s ride number or 1‑877‑MED‑TRIP if you don’t have a plan yet. See NEMT.
Where do I appeal if my plan lowers my attendant hours: File a plan appeal, then a State Fair Hearing, and call the Managed Care Ombudsman at 1‑866‑566‑8989. Use Ombudsman page.

Spanish summary — Resumen en español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Enfoque: Este guía se centra en programas de Texas para madres solteras con discapacidades. Para Medicaid por discapacidad, empiece en Your Texas Benefits y revise MEPD y MBI para Adultos. Para ayuda en el hogar, pida a su plan STAR+PLUS evaluación de CFC y el programa HCBS: STAR+PLUS (en español). Para evitar cortes de luz, solicite el estado de “Atención Crítica/Condición Crónica,” haga un plan de pago y pida ayuda de CEAP: CEAP, y llame a la PUC al 1‑888‑782‑8477. Para equipo telefónico adaptado, use STAP: STAP. Para préstamos de tecnología de asistencia, use TTAP: TTAP. Para transporte médico, llame al 1‑877‑633‑8747: NEMT. Si necesita ayuda local, marque 2‑1‑1: 211Texas. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique la información en los sitios oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Please note: Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Important: This information is for general guidance only. Programs change during the year, and amounts/timelines can vary by county and funding level. Always check the linked official pages, call to confirm current availability before applying, and keep copies of all forms and notices.

Thanks for sticking with this. Bookmark the links you’ll use most. Start with Medicaid, in‑home help, and shutoff protection, then move to housing and tech. You’ve got this—one step at a time.

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