Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Texas
Texas Healthcare Assistance for Single Mothers: Medicaid, CHIP & More [2025]
Last updated: September 2025
— This guide is written for single moms in Texas who need fast, accurate answers with direct links to official applications, hotlines, and income limits. We cite only official state/federal or established nonprofit sources and keep numbers current.
Quick Help Box
- Apply online for Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, TANF, and Healthy Texas Women at YourTexasBenefits.com. Need help by phone? Call 2‑1‑1 or 877‑541‑7905 (choose a language, then Option 2). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Pregnant? Apply right away for Medicaid for Pregnant Women. Decisions are due within 15 business days. If you don’t qualify, the state screens you for CHIP Perinatal automatically. Apply online at YourTexasBenefits. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Postpartum coverage: Texas Medicaid now covers moms for 12 months after pregnancy (effective March 1, 2024). Learn more on the state’s announcement page. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Not eligible for Medicaid? Check CHIP for your children and Healthy Texas Women (HTW) for you. See the latest income charts and costs below. (hhs.texas.gov, healthytexaswomen.org)
- Need a ride to the doctor? If you or your child has Medicaid or CHIP, call your health plan’s transportation line. If you don’t have a plan, call 877‑633‑8747 (877‑MED‑TRIP). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Live in Harris (Houston), Dallas, Bexar (San Antonio), Travis (Austin), or El Paso counties? You may qualify for hospital district financial assistance (Harris Health, Parkland, CareLink, Central Health MAP, UMC El Paso). See the county section for links and phone numbers. (harrishealth.org, parklandhealth.org, universityhealth.com, centralhealth.net, umcelpaso.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Texas, 2025)
| Program | Who it’s for | 2025 Income Guidance (monthly, before taxes) | Cost | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Children’s Medicaid | Kids 0–18 | Family of 3 ≤ 2,862∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗2,862**; Family of 4 ≤ **3,458 | Free | Children’s Medicaid & CHIP (hhs.texas.gov) |
| CHIP | Kids 0–18 over Medicaid limits | Family of 3 ≤ 4,325∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,325**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,226 | Annual fee 0–0–50; small copays | Same link as above (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Medicaid for Pregnant Women (TP 40) | Pregnant Texans (U.S. citizen/qualified non‑citizen) | Family of 3 ≤ 4,261∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,261**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,148 | Free | Pregnant Women Medicaid (hhs.texas.gov) |
| CHIP Perinatal | If you can’t get Medicaid and have no other insurance | Family of 3 ≤ 4,347∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,347**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,252 | No fees/copays; covers prenatal + delivery (mom gets up to 2 postpartum visits) | Same link as above (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Healthy Texas Women (HTW) & HTW Plus | Women 15–44, not pregnant, no insurance | Family of 3 ≤ $4,394 (204.2% FPL) | Free | HealthyTexasWomen.org (healthytexaswomen.org) |
| MBIC (Medicaid Buy‑In for Children) | Children with disabilities | Family of 4 ≤ $7,800 (premium depends on income) | Premium up to $230/mo, less with employer insurance/HIPP | MBIC (hhs.texas.gov) |
| Parent/Caretaker Medicaid | Extremely low income parents/caretakers of a child on Medicaid | Family of 3 (one parent) ≤ 230∗∗;Familyof4(oneparent)≤∗∗230**; Family of 4 (one parent) ≤ **277 | Free | Parents & Caretakers (hhs.texas.gov) |
Notes:
- Income figures are state-published monthly limits and already factor in how Texas determines eligibility. Always apply—some deductions and 5% disregard rules can help. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Postpartum: Medicaid now covers 12 months after pregnancy; CHIP Perinatal still gives the mother only two postpartum visits. (hhs.texas.gov)
Start Here: The Fastest Path to Coverage
- Apply for coverage for your children first (Children’s Medicaid or CHIP).
- Children’s Medicaid is free. CHIP is very low cost with small copays and an annual fee up to $50 per family. Use the income tables above and apply at YourTexasBenefits.com. (hhs.texas.gov)
- If you’re pregnant, apply for Medicaid for Pregnant Women right now.
- The state must decide within 15 business days. If you don’t qualify, they automatically check CHIP Perinatal. Coverage can start the first day of the month your eligibility is decided, and some clinics can start “presumptive” coverage sooner. (hhs.texas.gov)
- After delivery, know your postpartum rights.
- Medicaid covers you for 12 months postpartum (effective 3/1/2024). This is automatic if you qualified during pregnancy. If you were on CHIP Perinatal, the mother gets up to two postpartum visits; your newborn usually qualifies for Medicaid for 12 months. (hhs.texas.gov)
- If you’re not pregnant and uninsured, check Healthy Texas Women (HTW) or the Family Planning Program (FPP).
- HTW covers well‑woman care and birth control; HTW Plus adds enhanced postpartum services (mental health, diabetes, heart risks, SUD) for women whose pregnancy ended in the last 12 months. If you don’t qualify for HTW, clinics can enroll you in FPP (up to 250% FPL). (healthytexaswomen.org, hhs.texas.gov)
- If you have a child with disabilities and your income is too high for Medicaid, try MBIC.
- MBIC covers up to 300% FPL with modest premiums; lower premiums if your employer plan is supported by HIPP. (hhs.texas.gov)
- If none of the above fits, look at Marketplace coverage with tax credits.
- Open Enrollment is usually Nov 1 – Jan 15; enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 coverage. Many single moms qualify for big discounts through 2025. Enroll at HealthCare.gov. (healthcare.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a Community Partner near you for in‑person application help. You can also call the HHS Ombudsman if you’re stuck with a managed care issue: 866‑566‑8989. (hhs.texas.gov)
Children’s Medicaid and CHIP (Coverage for Your Kids)
Most important action
- Apply online at YourTexasBenefits.com and upload proof of income. If your child qualifies for Medicaid, coverage is free; if CHIP, fees are minimal. (hhs.texas.gov)
Who qualifies and income limits (2025)
- Children’s Medicaid (free): Family of 3 ≤ 2,862∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗2,862**; Family of 4 ≤ **3,458 per month. (hhs.texas.gov)
- CHIP (low-cost): Family of 3 ≤ 4,325∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,325**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,226 per month. Annual family enrollment fee 0–0–50; doctor/medicine copays typically 3–3–35 based on income. (hhs.texas.gov)
What’s covered
- Checkups, vaccines, ER/hospital care, prescriptions, mental health, vision/hearing; dental is covered for kids. (hhs.texas.gov)
CHIP costs: copay chart (state policy)
| Service | ≤151% FPL | 151–186% FPL | 186–201% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive care/shots | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Other doctor visits | $5 | $20 | $25 |
| Generic Rx | $0 | $10 | $10 |
| Brand Rx | $5 | $35 | $35 |
| Inpatient (per admission) | $35 | $75 | $125 |
| Non‑emergency ER | $5 | $75 | $75 |
Cap: family out‑of‑pocket limited to 5% of income per certification period. (hhs.texas.gov)
How to apply
- Online or on the app (scan and upload paystubs).
- Need help choosing a plan? Call the Enrollment Broker 800‑964‑2777. (hhs.texas.gov)
Timeline
- State must decide within 45 days; kids get 12 months continuous coverage. (hhs.texas.gov)
Required documents (typical)
- Photo ID (parent/caretaker), proof of Texas address, kids’ birthdates/SSNs (if available), last 30–60 days of paystubs or employer letter, proof of childcare/child support payments if asked. Upload through YourTexasBenefits. (yourtexasbenefits.com)
Real‑world example:
- A single mom with two kids earning 3,700/mo∗∗doesn’tqualifyforChildren’sMedicaidbutbothkidsqualifyforCHIPwitha∗∗3,700/mo** doesn’t qualify for Children’s Medicaid but both kids qualify for CHIP with a **50 enrollment fee and small copays. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for a fair hearing on your denial through YourTexasBenefits, or call the Medicaid helpline 800‑335‑8957; also contact the HHS Ombudsman 866‑566‑8989 if plan issues are blocking access. (hhs.texas.gov)
Coverage During Pregnancy (Medicaid for Pregnant Women & CHIP Perinatal)
Most important action
- Apply now. Pregnant Medicaid applications must be processed within 15 business days. Use YourTexasBenefits.com. (hhs.texas.gov)
Income limits (2025)
- Medicaid for Pregnant Women: Family of 3 ≤ 4,261∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,261**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,148 monthly. (hhs.texas.gov)
- CHIP Perinatal: Family of 3 ≤ 4,347∗∗;Familyof4≤∗∗4,347**; Family of 4 ≤ **5,252 monthly (for those ineligible for Medicaid and with no other insurance). (hhs.texas.gov)
Postpartum coverage realities
- Medicaid postpartum is 12 months (started Mar 1, 2024). (hhs.texas.gov)
- CHIP Perinatal still covers the mother for two postpartum visits within 60 days; the newborn typically moves to full Medicaid for the first year. (hhs.texas.gov)
What’s covered
- Prenatal visits, prenatal vitamins, delivery, newborn checkups; plus full Medicaid benefits if on Pregnant Women Medicaid. CHIP Perinatal covers prenatal/delivery; hospital facility fees for many Perinatal cases are paid via Emergency Medicaid. (hhs.texas.gov)
Timeline & enrollment
- CHIP Perinatal determinations within 15 business days; coverage starts the first day of the decision month. If you don’t pick a plan within 15 days, the state picks one. Up to 20 prenatal visits are covered; more if medically needed. (hhs.texas.gov)
Documents (typical)
- Proof of pregnancy may be self‑reported for start month; proof may be requested later. Proof of income (paystubs or employer letter), Texas residency, and immigration status (for Medicaid track). (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied for Medicaid due to immigration or slightly higher income, ask your clinic about CHIP Perinatal and Emergency Medicaid for delivery bills. If delays threaten care, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a “presumptive eligibility” site near you. (hhs.texas.gov)
Parent & Caretaker Medicaid (extremely low income)
Most important action
- Check if you qualify as a parent/caretaker of a child on Medicaid. Income limits are very low in Texas.
- Example monthly limits: Family of 3 (one parent) ≤ 230∗∗;Familyof4(oneparent)≤∗∗230**; Family of 4 (one parent) ≤ **277. Two‑parent limits differ slightly (see table). Apply at YourTexasBenefits. (hhs.texas.gov)
Reality check:
- Many working single moms earn above these amounts. If you don’t qualify, move to HTW (if not pregnant) and Marketplace coverage options below.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your child’s pediatrician if they accept CHIP while you look at Marketplace plans for yourself. Also check County Indigent Health Care (CIHCP) or hospital district programs below if you’re uninsured. (hhs.texas.gov)
Healthy Texas Women (HTW) and HTW Plus
Most important action
- If you’re 15–44, not pregnant, and uninsured, apply for HTW. It’s free and includes family planning, well‑woman exams, STI testing, and birth control. If your pregnancy ended in the last 12 months, HTW Plus adds enhanced postpartum care (mental health, diabetes, cardiovascular, SUD). Apply at YourTexasBenefits or at participating clinics. (healthytexaswomen.org, hhs.texas.gov)
Income limit (effective 3/1/2024–2/28/2025)
- 204.2% FPL (e.g., Family of 3 ≤ $4,394/mo). (healthytexaswomen.org)
Contact/help
- HTW helpline via TMHP: 800‑925‑9126 (Option 5). No client copays. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over income or don’t meet HTW rules, ask the clinic to screen you for the state’s Family Planning Program (FPP), which serves up to 250% FPL and can be determined at the clinic. (hhs.texas.gov)
Family Planning Program (FPP)
- Covers contraception (including LARC), STI services, well‑woman men’s/women’s screenings, limited prenatal benefits, and some chronic disease screenings. Clinics must screen for Medicaid and HTW first; if not eligible, they can enroll you in FPP up to 250% FPL. Eligibility can be decided at the clinic—often same day. Client helpline 512‑776‑7796. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about the Primary Health Care (PHC) Program (up to 200% FPL) and local FQHC sliding‑fee clinics. (hhs.texas.gov)
Medicaid Buy‑In for Children (MBIC)
- For children with disabilities up to 300% FPL; premiums vary by income and are lower if you have employer insurance with HIPP support (see below). Family of 4 premium bracket example: ≤ 7,800/mo∗∗(3007,800/mo** (300% FPL). Typical premiums up to **230/mo; with HIPP, max $70/mo. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about other long‑term services through children’s Medicaid waivers or STAR Kids; use the state’s plan comparison charts to find extra services. (hhs.texas.gov)
Rides to Appointments (Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation)
- If you or your child has Medicaid/CHIP, you can get rides, gas money, and sometimes meals/lodging for out‑of‑area care. Call your plan’s ride number (see state list) or 877‑633‑8747 if you don’t have a health plan. Schedule at least 2 workdays ahead (5 days if outside your county). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Example plan numbers: Aetna 866‑411‑8920, BCBS (ModivCare) 866‑824‑1565, Superior 855‑932‑2318, Texas Children’s (Veyo) 888‑401‑0170. See full list by plan on the HHS site. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Medicaid helpline 800‑335‑8957 or the Ombudsman 866‑566‑8989 if your plan isn’t scheduling approved trips. (hhs.texas.gov)
Breast & Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) and Medicaid for Breast & Cervical Cancer (MBCC)
- BCCS provides free screening/diagnostics up to 200% FPL at funded clinics statewide. If you’re diagnosed, BCCS will help enroll you in full Medicaid (MBCC) for treatment (ages 18–64, income ≤200% FPL, uninsured). Call 512‑776‑7796 or use the BCCS/MCC clinic locator. (hhs.texas.gov)
- MBCC members receive care through STAR+PLUS managed care with a service coordinator. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the clinic to refer you again for MBCC eligibility. If you’re not eligible, apply for your local hospital district’s financial assistance (below) while exploring Marketplace coverage. (hhs.texas.gov)
Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) — When Medicaid/CHIP Don’t Fit
- Open Enrollment most years is Nov 1 – Jan 15. Enroll by Dec 15 for Jan 1 coverage; enroll Dec 16–Jan 15 for Feb 1. Use HealthCare.gov or the 24/7 call center 800‑318‑2596. Premium tax credits are available at ≥100% FPL (lawfully present immigrants can qualify below this in some cases). Enhanced subsidies continue through 2025. (healthcare.gov, kff.org, healthinsurance.org)
Reality check:
- Texas hasn’t expanded Medicaid. If your income is below 100% FPL and you’re not pregnant or caring for a child on Medicaid, you may be in the “coverage gap.” Try hospital district programs, FQHCs, and County Indigent Health (below) as a bridge. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Work with a Marketplace navigator at an FQHC; many can help you compare plans and check cost‑sharing reductions. (dshs.texas.gov)
County & Hospital District Programs (Useful Plan B Options)
These are not insurance, but they can cut bills at county systems if you’re uninsured and low‑income.
| County/Area | Program | Income guide | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harris County (Houston) | Harris Health Financial Assistance (formerly “Gold Card”) | Up to 150% FPL for financial assistance; processing time target ~14 days | Call 713‑566‑6509 or see “Patient Eligibility” for forms/online portal. (harrishealth.org) |
| Dallas County | Parkland Financial Assistance (PFA) | Up to 250% FPL; discounts 65–90% for self‑pay charity | Call 214‑590‑8831; see Parkland PFA and Self‑Pay Charity pages for documents. (parklandhealth.org) |
| Bexar County (San Antonio) | University Health CareLink | Bexar residents, typically up to 200–250% FPL | Call 210‑358‑3350; enroll online or by phone. (universityhealth.com, universityhealth.com) |
| Travis County (Austin) | Central Health MAP / MAP Basic | Travis residents ≤ 200% FPL (FY2025) | Call 512‑978‑8130; apply online (English/Spanish). (centralhealth.net) |
| El Paso County | UMC El Paso – Financial Counseling & programs | Financial assistance available; women’s resource clinics help with Medicaid eligibility | Call UMC main 915‑544‑1200 or Women’s Resource Center 915‑521‑2220. (umcelpaso.org) |
Also check the County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) if you don’t qualify for other programs; statewide rule is ≤21% FPL with resource limits. Contact CIHCP through 2‑1‑1. (hhs.texas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use FQHCs on a sliding fee scale (below) while re‑applying for Medicaid/CHIP or checking Marketplace subsidies. (dshs.texas.gov)
Find Low‑Cost Clinics (FQHCs)
- Federally Qualified Health Centers provide primary care, women’s health, prenatal care in some sites, dental, and behavioral health on a sliding fee scale. They cannot turn you away for inability to pay.
- Find a clinic: HRSA Health Center Finder or the Texas Association of Community Health Centers locator. (data.hrsa.gov, tachc.org)
Transportation, ID Cards, Provider Searches, and Complaints
- Print a Medicaid card, find your plan, or search for doctors and pharmacies via YourTexasBenefits portal. Medicaid helpline 800‑252‑8263 can tell you your plan and PCP/dentist. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Submit Medicaid/CHIP complaints: start with your plan; if unresolved, file with HHSC Ombudsman 866‑566‑8989. (hhs.texas.gov)
Extra Ways to Reduce Costs
- HIPP (Health Insurance Premium Payment): If anyone in your family has Medicaid and someone at home can get employer coverage, the state may pay your job‑based premium. HIPP helpline 800‑440‑0493. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Texas WIC (for pregnant/postpartum moms and children under 5): Call 800‑942‑3678. Works alongside Medicaid/CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
Mental Health, Postpartum Support, and Crisis Lines
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988. For local services (including postpartum depression support and substance use), find your Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA) by county using the state’s search tool. (hhs.texas.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Help in Texas
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: FQHCs and LMHAs serve all identities. When picking a Medicaid/CHIP plan, use provider search filters (language, weekend hours, LGBTQ+‑friendly clinics) or call the plan to confirm. Use the HHS Ombudsman if you face discrimination. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask about MBIC (up to 300% FPL) and STAR Kids services; use Medical Transportation for rides. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You can use VA care and also apply for Medicaid/CHIP for your children. For mental‑health crisis, dial 988, press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms: Pregnant Women Medicaid requires U.S. citizen/qualified status, but CHIP Perinatal serves pregnant women regardless of immigration status (and covers the unborn child). Newborns often qualify for Medicaid. Family Planning Program may accept self‑declared residency if verification blocks care. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Tribal citizens: You can use IHS facilities and also enroll in Medicaid/CHIP. American Indian/Alaska Native children are exempt from CHIP cost‑sharing. Find IHS clinics via the national locator. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Rural single moms: Use the HRSA locator or TACHC search to find nearby FQHCs; most offer telehealth and sliding‑fee discounts. (data.hrsa.gov, tachc.org)
- Single fathers raising kids: All the children’s programs above apply; you can also be the “caretaker” for Parent/Caretaker Medicaid. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Language access: YourTexasBenefits and most plans offer Spanish. Parkland notes translation in 166 languages; all Medicaid plans must provide interpreter services. (parklandhealth.org)
Application Checklist (print this)
| Item | Examples |
|---|---|
| Proof of identity (adult) | Driver’s license, state ID, passport (foreign okay) |
| Proof of Texas residency | Lease, recent utility bill, mail postmarked in last 30 days |
| Proof of income | Last 30–60 days of paystubs, employer letter, self‑employment record |
| Pregnancy info (if pregnant) | Due date; clinic letter if available (not always required at first) |
| SSNs (if available) | For applicants; not required for non‑applicants in the home |
| Insurance info | Any current Medicaid/Medicare/other insurance card or denial letter |
| Child info | Birthdates; birth certificates (if available) |
Upload through your online account at YourTexasBenefits.com or have a Community Partner help you scan. (yourtexasbenefits.com)
Timelines & What To Expect
| Step | Usual timeframe |
|---|---|
| Pregnant Medicaid (TP 40) decision | Within 15 business days of file date |
| Children’s Medicaid/CHIP decision | Within 45 days |
| CHIP Perinatal decision | 15 business days; plan choice due 15 calendar days after notice |
| Postpartum coverage (Medicaid) | 12 months after pregnancy end (effective 3/1/2024) |
Citations: TP40/CHIP Perinatal timeframes and continuous coverage rules are in the Texas Works Handbook; postpartum extension announcements are on HHSC News. (hhs.texas.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 15‑day window to pick a CHIP Perinatal health plan (the state will pick one if you don’t). Keep that letter and call fast. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Not uploading enough pay history. Aim for 30–60 days of paystubs or a recent employer letter with gross pay and pay frequency. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Skipping HTW or FPP when you’re over income for Medicaid. Clinics can screen you quickly, and services are free or low‑cost. (healthytexaswomen.org, hhs.texas.gov)
- Thinking CHIP Perinatal gives 12 months postpartum for moms—it doesn’t. Moms get up to two postpartum visits; babies usually get Medicaid through the first birthday. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Forgetting transportation benefits. Many appointments can be covered for rides or gas. Call your plan or 877‑633‑8747. (hhs.texas.gov)
What To Do If You’re Denied or Delayed (Plan B)
- Ask for a fair hearing in your YourTexasBenefits account if you think the decision is wrong.
- If waiting periods or plan issues block care, call the HHS Ombudsman for Managed Care at 866‑566‑8989. (hhs.texas.gov)
- While you wait, use FQHC sliding‑fee clinics and check county programs (Harris Health, Parkland, CareLink, Central Health MAP, UMC El Paso). (dshs.texas.gov, harrishealth.org, parklandhealth.org, universityhealth.com, centralhealth.net, umcelpaso.org)
Quick Reference: Health Plan & Help Lines
- Enrollment Broker/plan changes: 800‑964‑2777 (STAR/CHIP). (hhs.texas.gov)
- Medicaid helpline (benefits, bills): 800‑335‑8957. (hhs.texas.gov)
- CHIP general info: 877‑543‑7669. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Medical Transportation (no plan): 877‑633‑8747. (hhs.texas.gov)
- HHS Ombudsman Managed Care: 866‑566‑8989. (hhs.texas.gov)
10 Texas‑Specific FAQs
- How fast can I get coverage if I’m pregnant?
- The state must process a pregnant Medicaid application within 15 business days; some clinics can grant presumptive eligibility. (hhs.texas.gov)
- I’m 6 weeks postpartum and lost coverage. Can I get it back?
- If you had Medicaid during pregnancy, you should get a full 12 months postpartum (since 3/1/2024). Call 2‑1‑1 or your plan if it ended early. (hhs.texas.gov)
- My income changes a lot. Should I still apply?
- Yes. Medicaid/CHIP look at current monthly income and certain disregards. You might qualify, or your kids might qualify for CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Do CHIP Perinatal moms get dental or full postpartum care?
- No. CHIP Perinatal is focused on prenatal care and delivery for the unborn child. Moms get up to two postpartum visits only. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Can I get help with job‑based insurance costs?
- If someone in the family has Medicaid, HIPP may reimburse your employer plan premiums. Call 800‑440‑0493. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Are rides included?
- Yes, for Medicaid (and many CHIP situations). Call your plan’s ride number or 877‑633‑8747 if you don’t have a plan. (hhs.texas.gov)
- I’m undocumented and pregnant. Any options?
- Yes. CHIP Perinatal provides prenatal care and delivery coverage for the unborn child regardless of the mother’s immigration status. The newborn often gets Medicaid. (hhs.texas.gov)
- My child has special health needs and our income is too high for Medicaid. What now?
- Look at MBIC (up to 300% FPL with premiums), and ask about STAR Kids services. (hhs.texas.gov)
- Where can I get low‑cost care while waiting?
- Use an FQHC near you via HRSA’s locator; they use sliding‑fee scales and won’t turn you away. (data.hrsa.gov)
- Who can help when I can’t reach anyone?
- Call 2‑1‑1 (Option 1 for resources; Option 2 for benefits) or the Ombudsman 866‑566‑8989 for managed care problems. (hhs.texas.gov)
Why this guide goes beyond typical search results
Many top search results mix outdated numbers, generic advice, or lack action steps. This guide closes gaps by:
- Providing current monthly income limits per program straight from Texas HHS pages, with direct links.
- Showing the real postpartum rule difference (12 months for Medicaid moms vs. two visits for CHIP Perinatal moms).
- Listing hospital district programs with phone numbers for major Texas metros (Harris Health, Parkland, CareLink, Central Health MAP, UMC El Paso).
- Including ride benefits and plan phone lists to actually get to appointments.
- Giving timelines (15/45‑day standards) and a Plan B for denials. (hhs.texas.gov, harrishealth.org, parklandhealth.org, universityhealth.com, centralhealth.net)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- This guide uses official sources from Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), USDA, and established nonprofits.
- Our methodology: We verify eligibility rules, income limits, costs, timelines, phone numbers, and application portals using Texas HHS handbooks, program pages, and HHSC news releases. We link directly to official forms, phone numbers, and application sites. See links and citations throughout.
- Editorial Standards: See our Editorial Policy. Regular reviews every 8 months; policy change updates within 48 hours of confirmation.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
- Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48 hours.
This page references: YourTexasBenefits, HHSC program pages and handbooks, CHIP/Medicaid cost‑sharing charts, HTW/FPP policies, CIHCP, county hospital district programs, HRSA FQHC locator, HIPP, and HHSC transportation resources. All figures are from 2024–2025 HHSC postings unless noted. (hhs.texas.gov, healthytexaswomen.org, harrishealth.org, parklandhealth.org, universityhealth.com, centralhealth.net, data.hrsa.gov)
Disclaimer
- Programs change. Benefit amounts, income limits, covered services, and processing times can update during the year. Always verify details with the official agency links in this guide. We are researchers, not your legal counsel, and we cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
- Security note: Apply only through official state and hospital websites linked here. Never pay third parties to “guarantee” Medicaid/CHIP approvals. Protect personal info—use the secure YourTexasBenefits.com portal or the phone numbers listed above. If someone asks you to pay to submit a Harris Health or Parkland application, don’t pay—report it; Harris Health’s Eligibility Call Center is 713‑566‑6509 and Parkland Financial Services is 214‑590‑8831. (harrishealth.org, parklandhealth.org)
— End of guide —
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- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
