Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Texas

Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Texas

Last updated: September 2025

This guide uses CommonMark links with italic anchor text placed naturally inside sentences.
Every paragraph includes several descriptive links so you can click straight to help.

Reality check — funding, staffing, and policy change fast. Always call or check each resource’s official page to confirm current rules before you apply.

(hhs.texas.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Call 2-1-1 and press Option 2 to ask for rush help with postpartum Medicaid, transportation to medical visits, and food aid; you can also apply online through the Your Texas Benefits portal and get live phone help at 1-877-541-7905 because it routes straight to state benefits support. (hhs.texas.gov)
If you gave birth in the past 12 months and had Medicaid during pregnancy, ask your plan or the state to confirm your 12‑month postpartum coverage (effective March 1, 2024) and schedule care now; use the Texas HHS postpartum extension page, the Medicaid for Pregnant Women page, and your plan’s member line on your card. (hhs.texas.gov)
For mood changes, scary thoughts, or anxiety, text or call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262 and also contact Postpartum Support International for Texas support groups; for crisis, call or text 988 right now. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Quick Help — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

Medicaid/CHIP questions: Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905 (Option 2) and manage your case in the Your Texas Benefits account or app; use the Medicaid card Q&A for quick fixes like address changes. (hhs.texas.gov)
Rides to medical care (NEMT): If you’re in Medicaid but not in a health plan, call 1-877-633-8747; otherwise call your plan’s transportation line; find rules on the Nonemergency Medical Transportation page and Spanish details in the Programa de Transporte Médico. (hhs.texas.gov)
Breastfeeding help (24/7): Call the Texas Lactation Support Hotline at 1-855-550-6667; see We’re Here to Help and Lactation Support Centers & Hotlines for local clinics in Austin, Dallas, Houston, McAllen, and San Antonio. (texaswic.org)
Postpartum mental health support: Call or text 1-833-852-6262 (free, confidential, 24/7); get Spanish and interpreter access through HRSA’s MCHB hotline page and learn how they connect you to local care. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
Child support and legal help: Open a case with the Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division (1-800-252-8014), check the Language Assistance Program if you need interpreters, and read how to apply online step‑by‑step. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

What’s Covered After Birth in Texas — The Fast Version

Texas now provides up to 12 months of postpartum Medicaid coverage for eligible moms whose pregnancy was covered by Medicaid, starting the month after the pregnancy ends; get official updates on the HHSC postpartum extension page and confirm your plan’s benefits through Your Texas Benefits and the Managed Care Ombudsman. CHIP rules are different: “CHIP Perinatal” still limits the mother’s postpartum visits, so use the Medicaid vs. CHIP Perinatal page to see your category and call to verify your exact coverage. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality check — CHIP Perinatal mothers typically receive two postpartum visits within 60 days, while infants get the rest of the 12‑month perinatal segment; if you were on CHIP Perinatal and you need more care, ask about switching to Healthy Texas Women and the HTW Plus postpartum services. Call to confirm details in your county and for your plan. (hhs.texas.gov)

Understanding Your Coverage Type After Delivery

Texas has several pathways that impact your care after birth. Match yourself to the row that fits your situation and then follow the steps under “Do this first.”

Program	Who this applies to	Postpartum coverage	Do this first	Notes
Medicaid for Pregnant Women (TP 40)	You had Medicaid during pregnancy	12 months postpartum (continuous)	Check your status in the Your Texas Benefits account and call your MCO’s member line to book a 6–12 week postpartum visit now	If you lose another Medicaid type, Texas auto‑transitions you to TP 40 for the rest of the pregnancy/postpartum. (hhs.texas.gov)
CHIP Perinatal	You didn’t qualify for Medicaid, used CHIP Perinatal	Mother: two postpartum visits within 60 days; infant: coverage through the assigned 12‑month perinatal segment	Schedule your two visits ASAP; apply for Healthy Texas Women to bridge care; enroll the baby in Medicaid/CHIP right away	These limits still appear in 2025 manuals; call to confirm if any local options extend care. (hhs.texas.gov)
Healthy Texas Women (HTW) and HTW Plus	You’re uninsured and not pregnant now	HTW covers family planning; HTW Plus covers certain postpartum conditions (depression, heart, substance use)	Apply online via Healthy Texas Women, or ask a clinic to help; use the provider line 866‑993‑9972 to check eligibility	HTW is a limited benefit program; it’s not full‑scope Medicaid. (hhs.texas.gov)
Baby’s coverage (TP 45/CHIP)	Your newborn	Medicaid newborn coverage to 12 months if mom had Medicaid at delivery; CHIP newborn coverage if perinatal CHIP	Ask the hospital or OB to file the newborn paperwork; confirm “newborn” status in Your Texas Benefits	Texas policy gives automatic newborn coverage when mom was Medicaid‑eligible at birth. (hhs.texas.gov)

Step‑by‑Step: How to Get and Keep Postpartum Coverage

Start here: Create or log into your Your Texas Benefits account and check messages and “To‑Do’s.” Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑541‑7905 (Option 2) for live help; if you can’t get through, use the HHS help page and the Ombudsman if your case is stuck. (hhs.texas.gov)

Gather documents: Upload ID, proof of Texas residency, pregnancy end date, and income; use the Benefits Application Next Steps page for what counts, and print a temporary Medicaid card if needed. (hhs.texas.gov)
Know timelines: HHSC must decide pregnancy Medicaid faster than other cases; Texas policy shows 15 working days for a pregnant woman’s application and 45 days for children; check notices in your account and call if your date passes. (hhs.texas.gov)
Use transportation: Book rides 2 business days ahead through your plan, or call 1-877-633-8747 if you’re not in a plan; the Nonemergency Medical Transportation page explains gas cards and same‑day exceptions. (hhs.texas.gov)
Protect your coverage: Respond to renewal packets right away; continuous coverage after the pandemic ended March 31, 2023, so keep your address current in Your Texas Benefits. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Managed Care Ombudsman (1-866-566-8989) for plan issues; visit an FQHC using Find a Health Center and ask for sliding‑fee care; contact your county program like Harris Health Financial Assistance, Parkland Financial Assistance, or Central Health MAP for interim care. (hhs.texas.gov)

Breastfeeding, Formula, and Nutrition Help (WIC + beyond)

Texas WIC offers free food benefits, 1-on‑1 nutrition help, and 24/7 lactation support; apply on the Texas WIC Apply page, call 1-800-942-3678, or use live chat; save the Texas Lactation Support Hotline (1-855-550-6667) and find a WIC Lactation Support Center near you. (texaswic.org)

Reality check — WIC appointments fill up fast, but clinics can often do phone certs and video lactation consults; if the hotline rings through to voicemail, leave a callback number per WIC guidance. Bring your baby’s Medicaid/CHIP info to speed formula prescriptions and vendor issues. (texaswic.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan for a breast pump and lactation consult benefits; check HRSA’s Find a Health Center tool for clinics with lactation staff; use the BreastmilkCounts resources when you’re learning latch or pumping. (bphc.hrsa.gov)

Mental Health After Birth — Getting Help Today

Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262 to reach trained counselors 24/7; connect to local providers via MCHB’s hotline page and message Postpartum Support International (1‑800‑944‑4773) for Texas groups; in crisis, call or text 988. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Texas also funds prevention work through Texas Home Visiting (for parenting support and screening) and statewide quality improvement in hospitals via TexasAIM; if you’re in Bexar, Dallas, Harris, Travis, or other counties with Nurse‑Family Partnership, ask your OB or plan to refer you while pregnant or soon after birth. (fss.hhs.texas.gov)

Reality check — postpartum mood treatment access varies by county; if you’re uninsured, ask an FQHC to bill Title V Maternal & Child Health or enroll you in Healthy Texas Women Plus for postpartum depression care while you apply for ongoing coverage. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid plan for behavioral health providers who see postpartum patients within 10–14 days; if waitlists are long, request telehealth, see HRSA’s Healthy Start projects, and ask the clinic to code visits under postpartum Medicaid when eligible. (hrsa.gov)

Money for Food, Cash, and Essentials

Apply for SNAP food benefits and TANF cash help in Your Texas Benefits; benefits come on your Lone Star Card (Help Desk 1‑800‑777‑7328); if you think your SNAP was skimmed before Dec. 21, 2024, read the SNAP Fraud Replacement page for deadlines. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality check — SNAP can expedite same‑day or next‑day in true emergencies; HHSC can issue within 1 business day in qualifying situations, but you must verify identity; use 2‑1‑1 if online uploads fail. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211Texas.org to find local pantries and diaper banks; ask your Medicaid plan about value‑added benefits like diapers or car seats; check community clinics and county programs for one‑time pharmacy help. (crcg.hhs.texas.gov)

Child Care and Going Back to Work

Apply for child‑care scholarships through your Local Workforce Board’s Child Care & Early Learning Program; use Find Child Care and the Texas Child Care Availability Portal to search nearby openings, then apply through TX3C. Expect waitlists in many urban areas; keep calling your Board. (twc.texas.gov)

Reality check — boards report long waitlists and variable funding; request priority flags if you receive TANF, are in training, or have a protective referral; ask your Board about job services through Choices while you wait. (twc.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your FQHC or hospital social workers about on‑site early childhood partners; contact Texas Home Visiting for parenting groups, and check HRSA Find a Health Center for clinics with social workers who help with child‑care referrals. (fss.hhs.texas.gov)

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Texas Today

Call your electric provider and request a deferred payment plan immediately; then call the Public Utility Commission Consumer line at 1‑888‑782‑8477 if you can’t set one up; review PUC complaint steps and know your disconnection rules including extreme weather protections and critical care forms. (puc.texas.gov)

Apply to the state’s LIHEAP programs: request bill help through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and longer‑term savings via the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP); check TDHCA’s 2025 income tables (LIHEAP WAP at 150% FPL; DOE WAP at 200% FPL) and apply with your local subrecipient. (tdhca.texas.gov)

Reality check — CEAP spots open and close quickly by county; some sites only accept a set number of paper applications per day; bring your ID, proof of income, utility bills, and proof of residency to improve your chances. Always call to confirm dates and availability. (lmtonline.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city about local relief, search 211Texas.org for emergency funds, and ask your Medicaid plan’s social services team to document “medical necessity” for utility continuity for medically fragile infants (critical care program). (crcg.hhs.texas.gov)

Transportation to Care, Even Without a Car

Use Medicaid’s Nonemergency Medical Transportation for clinic visits, pharmacy trips, and hospital discharges; call two business days ahead or ask for same‑day ride approval when you’re discharged or the doctor needs to see you urgently; if you have a car but no gas, ask about gas cards via the ITP program. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your plan for its transportation vendor line; if you’re not in a plan, call 1‑877‑633‑8747; search 211Texas.org for church or nonprofit ride programs, and ask WIC about bus vouchers for appointments. (hhs.texas.gov)

Keeping Your Job and Income: What the Law Says

The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires most employers with 15+ employees to give reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including lactation; see the EEOC’s PWFA rule summary, the PWFA “What You Should Know”, and talk to HR in writing with your request. (eeoc.gov)

For unpaid, job‑protected leave, use the federal Family and Medical Leave Act if you qualify (employer size/time‑worked rules apply), and ask HR to stack PWFA accommodations with leave; if you need a private pumping space and break time, use the federal PUMP Act information through the U.S. Department of Labor. (Check with your HR office and DOL resources.)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact the EEOC to file a charge, consult TexasLawHelp.org for free legal info, and call your local workforce Board about employer mediation; document everything (dates, names, requests, responses) for your records. (eeoc.gov)

Marketplace Coverage After Postpartum Ends

If your 12‑month postpartum Medicaid will end, use the HealthCare.gov Special Enrollment Period rules for “loss of Medicaid/CHIP” to pick a plan; Texas uses the federal Marketplace, and 2025 enrollment data show millions enrolled statewide; enhanced ACA subsidies remain in place through 2025 under current law. Apply up to 60 days before your loss date to avoid any gap. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get a free navigator through an FQHC using Find a Health Center; if you’re denied a Special Enrollment Period, appeal through HealthCare.gov and ask for a Medicaid termination letter from Your Texas Benefits as proof. (data.hrsa.gov)

Local Safety Net Programs That Often Say “Yes” Faster

Many counties run medical assistance programs for uninsured residents with low incomes. You can use these programs while you wait on state coverage or Marketplace enrollment.

Harris County: Apply for the Harris Health Financial Assistance Program (“Gold Card”) online, drop off documents at listed clinics, and keep your eligibility letter handy. (harrishealth.org)
Dallas County: Use Parkland Financial Assistance or the Self‑Pay Charity Discount Program (financial counselors 214‑590‑8831) and ask which plans Parkland contracts with before you enroll. (parklandhealth.org)
Bexar County (San Antonio): Apply for CareLink (210‑358‑3350); CareLink is not insurance, but it organizes care and payments for University Health services based on income. (universityhealth.com)
Travis County (Austin): Apply for Central Health MAP or MAP Basic (512‑978‑8130); MAP is available regardless of immigration status and uses 2025 FPL to set eligibility. (centralhealth.net)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Go to an FQHC with a sliding fee scale through HRSA’s Find a Health Center tool; ask for a same‑day prenatal/postpartum slot and social work. (data.hrsa.gov)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Where to Go

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your plan or HealthCare.gov for inclusive providers and use Postpartum Support International’s LGBTQ+ resources; for name/pronoun updates on benefits, use Your Texas Benefits profile change and request clinic updates at check‑in. (healthcare.gov)

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children: Request PWFA accommodations at work using EEOC guidance and ask Medicaid about NEMT for specialty care; for children with complex needs, contact your local FQHC via Find a Health Center. Ask agencies for large‑print forms or TTY via Relay Texas 7‑1‑1. (eeoc.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Use VA Maternity Care and Women Veterans Program Managers (contact VA directly), apply for WIC and HTW Plus if you’re uninsured between VA visits, and enroll your baby in Medicaid or CHIP; ask about VA‑to‑community referrals through your VA social worker. (Check VA resources and your local VA facility.)

Immigrant/Refugee Single Moms: If you used CHIP Perinatal, schedule your two postpartum visits and enroll the baby immediately; Central Health MAP and FQHCs serve uninsured residents regardless of immigration status; use 211Texas.org for legal aid and language access. (hhs.texas.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: Use HealthCare.gov SEP rules if you’re a tribal member; some Indian Health Service clinics partner with FQHCs — use Find a Health Center and call ahead about postpartum care. (healthcare.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask for telehealth postpartum visits through your plan; use NEMT for long‑distance specialty visits with meals/lodging for kids under 21 as allowed, and ask TDHCA for Weatherization to reduce high utility costs. (hhs.texas.gov)

Single fathers: Fathers can enroll infants and toddlers in WIC and apply for SNAP/TANF for the household; they can also open a case with the Texas OAG Child Support to set legal orders. (texaswic.org)

Language access: Ask every agency for interpreters; the OAG’s Language Assistance Program and Relay Texas 7‑1‑1 are available; many HHS pages also have Spanish versions (look for “Español” links). (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)

Houston region: Apply to Harris Health Financial Assistance; find FQHCs with Find a Health Center; for breastfeeding, the Houston Lactation Foundation number listed by WIC is 713‑500‑2800 (Option 1). (harrishealth.org)
Dallas/Fort Worth: Call Parkland Financial Assistance (214‑590‑8831) and ask for OB and behavioral health access; ask your plan about value‑added benefits and NEMT rides. (parklandhealth.org)
San Antonio: Enroll in CareLink if uninsured and use University Health financial assistance links; ask about postpartum mental health referrals. (universityhealth.com)
Austin/Central Texas: Apply for Central Health MAP and check FQHCs like CommUnityCare via Find a Health Center; use Texas WIC for lactation classes. (centralhealth.net)
Rio Grande Valley, El Paso, Panhandle, East Texas: Use Find a Health Center to locate FQHCs; call NEMT for long travel; ask TDHCA about WAP and CEAP providers serving your county. (data.hrsa.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing renewal mail: Not updating your address in Your Texas Benefits causes quick loss of coverage; set text/email alerts and check the app weekly. (hhs.texas.gov)
Assuming CHIP Perinatal equals full postpartum care: It doesn’t; moms typically get only two postpartum visits; apply for Healthy Texas Women or HTW Plus and use FQHCs for additional care. (hhs.texas.gov)
Not asking for transportation: Many moms skip care because of a ride; book NEMT 2 business days ahead or request same‑day when discharged or told to return urgently. (hhs.texas.gov)
Waiting to enroll the baby: Babies of Medicaid‑covered deliveries get automatic Medicaid newborn coverage; still confirm TP 45 in Your Texas Benefits and pick a pediatrician now. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality Check Boxes — Delays, Denials, and Shortages

Reality check — application backlogs: Texas policy says pregnant women’s Medicaid should be decided within 15 working days, but real‑world wait times can stretch if documents are missing; upload clean scans, respond fast to requests, and call 2‑1‑1 if your due date is close. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality check — child care: Most Boards have waitlists; keep your place by replying to texts/emails and turning in documents fast; ask about priority categories and short‑term care while on the list. (twc.texas.gov)

Reality check — utility help: CEAP funds open and close quickly; follow TDHCA’s announcements and your local Community Action Agency’s Facebook page; bring a full packet to same‑day events. (tdhca.texas.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need	Where to go	How to start	Notes
Confirm postpartum Medicaid	HHSC postpartum extension	Check Your Texas Benefits and call your plan	12 months postpartum starts the month after pregnancy ends. (hhs.texas.gov)
If you had CHIP Perinatal	Medicaid for Pregnant Women & CHIP Perinatal	Book your two postpartum visits now; apply for HTW Plus	Mother’s covered visits are limited; infant has perinatal coverage. (hhs.texas.gov)
Ride to appointments	Nonemergency Medical Transportation	Call your plan or 1‑877‑633‑8747	Ask about gas cards (ITP). (hhs.texas.gov)
WIC and breastfeeding	Texas WIC Apply	Hotline 1‑855‑550‑6667 and local centers	24/7 lactation help statewide. (texaswic.org)
Marketplace after Medicaid	HealthCare.gov SEP	Enroll within 60 days before/after loss	Texas uses HealthCare.gov. (healthcare.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

Documents: ID, proof of Texas residency, proof of pregnancy end date, income for last 30 days; see Benefits Application Next Steps for accepted proof. (hhs.texas.gov)
Accounts: Create Your Texas Benefits login and enable text/email alerts; list your baby under your case as soon as possible. (hhs.texas.gov)
Appointments: Schedule your postpartum visit for 2–6 weeks after birth; if CHIP Perinatal, book both visits before day 60; arrange NEMT rides early. (hhs.texas.gov)
Backups: Find an FQHC via Find a Health Center, write down WIC and Lactation Hotline numbers, and save your plan’s 24/7 nurse line. (data.hrsa.gov)
Support: Save the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑852‑6262) and PSI Helpline (1‑800‑944‑4773). (mchb.hrsa.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

Read the notice carefully: Log into Your Texas Benefits to see why and the due date to appeal. Submit missing proof fast and ask for a supervisor callback. (hhs.texas.gov)
Ask for help: Call the Ombudsman for stuck cases; if you lost coverage by mistake, your plan can often expedite re‑enrollment once HHSC updates your file. (hhs.texas.gov)
Bridge care: Use Harris Health, Parkland, CareLink, or MAP while you appeal; ask your FQHC to see you on a sliding scale for urgent postpartum needs. (harrishealth.org)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

Dallas County: Parkland offers Financial Assistance and a Self‑Pay Charity Discount (65–90% discount based on income/residency); ask for financial counseling locations and hours. (parklandhealth.org)
Harris County: Harris Health Financial Assistance replaced the old “Gold Card”; keep your eligibility letter in your wallet; apply online or use drop‑box sites listed on their page. (harrishealth.org)
Bexar County: CareLink requires Bexar residency and income at/under 250% FPL; it organizes primary/specialty care and payment schedules for University Health services. (universityhealth.com)
Travis County: Central Health MAP/MAP Basic accepts uninsured residents regardless of immigration status; 2025 eligibility uses 200% FPL monthly income. (centralhealth.net)

Tables You Can Use Right Now

Texas Postpartum & Women’s Coverage Options at a Glance

Option	Income basis	Immigration limits	Coverage length	Where to apply
Medicaid for Pregnant Women	2025 FPL rules	U.S. citizen/qualified	Pregnancy + 12 months postpartum	Your Texas Benefits (hhs.texas.gov)
CHIP Perinatal	2025 FPL rules	Open regardless of mom’s status	Mother: 2 visits in 60 days; infant: perinatal segment	Your Texas Benefits (hhs.texas.gov)
Healthy Texas Women / HTW Plus	State set	U.S. citizen/qualified	12 months continuous (limited benefits)	Healthy Texas Women (hhs.texas.gov)
County programs (Harris/Parkland/CareLink/MAP)	County set	Residency‑based	Varies by program	County sites linked above

2025 Federal Poverty Level (48 states) — Key Rows

Family size	100% FPL	200% FPL
1	$15,650	$31,300
2	$21,150	$42,300
3	$26,650	$53,300
4	$32,150	$64,300

Source: HealthCare.gov FPL glossary (2025 numbers). (healthcare.gov)

Transportation, Food, Cash — Where to Call

Need	First call	Backup
Medical rides (NEMT)	Your plan’s ride line or 1‑877‑633‑8747	211Texas.org transportation listings (hhs.texas.gov)
SNAP/TANF	2‑1‑1 (Option 2) or Your Texas Benefits	Lone Star Card Help Desk 1‑800‑777‑7328 (hhs.texas.gov)
WIC	Texas WIC Apply or 1‑800‑942‑3678	Lactation Hotline 1‑855‑550‑6667 (texaswic.org)

Utility Help — CEAP & Weatherization

Program	What it pays	Income limit	Where to apply
CEAP (LIHEAP)	Past‑due bills, crisis, basic energy	County‑specific (see subrecipient)	TDHCA CEAP page (tdhca.texas.gov)
WAP (DOE/LIHEAP)	Energy‑saving home repairs	200% FPL (DOE WAP)	TDHCA WAP page & 2025 WAP income table (tdhca.texas.gov)

Postpartum Mental Health — Fast Contacts

Service	Contact	Notes
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline	1‑833‑852‑6262	24/7; English/Spanish; interpreters available (mchb.hrsa.gov)
Postpartum Support International	1‑800‑944‑4773	Helpline + Texas groups; text options available (postpartum.net)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline	988	24/7 crisis line

Real‑World Examples

Medicaid mom in Harris County: You delivered in May 2025 on Medicaid; in June you got a renewal packet. You confirm your postpartum coverage in Your Texas Benefits, book a ride through your plan, and if a bill shows up, you call your plan’s member services and the Ombudsman to correct it. If you lose coverage by error, you visit an FQHC the same day while HHSC fixes your case. (hhs.texas.gov)
CHIP Perinatal mom in Dallas: You schedule your two postpartum visits by day 45; you apply for Healthy Texas Women Plus for postpartum depression treatment; for primary care, you apply for Parkland Financial Assistance and ask financial counselors to help you transition to a Marketplace plan when eligible. (hhs.texas.gov)
Rural mom in the Panhandle: You call NEMT for travel to a postpartum cardiology visit; you apply for WAP to lower summer AC bills and CEAP to clear a shutoff notice; you keep SNAP current via Your Texas Benefits with text alerts. (hhs.texas.gov)

FAQs — Texas Postpartum and Support (2025)

How long does postpartum Medicaid last in Texas: Up to 12 months after the pregnancy ends for those who had Medicaid during pregnancy; it starts the month after birth or pregnancy end. Check your plan and HHSC’s extension page for details. (hhs.texas.gov)
I was on CHIP Perinatal. Do I get 12 months too: Mothers on CHIP Perinatal still show two postpartum visits within 60 days in current manuals; infants get coverage through the perinatal segment. Apply for HTW Plus and use FQHCs while exploring other coverage. Always call to confirm any updates. (hhs.texas.gov)
How fast will HHSC decide my pregnancy application: Texas policy shows notices within 15 working days for pregnant women’s coverage; children’s applications are due within 45 days. Upload clean documents and call 2‑1‑1 if that date passes. (hhs.texas.gov)
How do I get a ride to postpartum visits: Use Nonemergency Medical Transportation; call at least two business days ahead, or ask for same‑day approval for urgent discharges; request gas cards through ITP if you have a car but no fuel money. (hhs.texas.gov)
Will my baby be covered automatically: If you had Medicaid at delivery, your newborn qualifies for TP 45 newborn Medicaid through the first birthday; still confirm in Your Texas Benefits. (hhs.texas.gov)
Where can I get free breastfeeding help: Call the Texas Lactation Support Hotline (1‑855‑550‑6667) any time; schedule in‑person help at WIC lactation centers; ask your plan for a breast pump. (texaswic.org)
I lost Medicaid after postpartum. Can I get Marketplace coverage: Yes, “loss of Medicaid/CHIP” triggers a Special Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov; Texas uses the federal Marketplace; subsidies under current law last through 2025. (healthcare.gov)
My power is being disconnected during extreme heat: Ask for a deferred payment plan, submit any critical care forms if medically necessary, and call the PUC at 1‑888‑782‑8477; apply for CEAP emergency help. (puc.texas.gov)
Do employers have to accommodate pumping and postpartum needs: Yes, the federal PWFA requires reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and related conditions, including lactation; read the EEOC’s rule summary and request in writing. (eeoc.gov)
Who can help with child support orders and fee‑free language services: The Texas OAG Child Support Division (1‑800‑252‑8014) has interpreter support and Relay Texas; apply online to start your case. (texasattorneygeneral.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Cobertura posparto: Si tuvo Medicaid durante el embarazo, usted tiene hasta 12 meses de cobertura posparto. Revise su cuenta en Your Texas Benefits y la página de Extensión de Cobertura Posparto de HHSC; programe su cita posparto de 2–6 semanas ahora mismo. (hhs.texas.gov)
CHIP Perinatal: Las madres de CHIP Perinatal reciben dos citas posparto dentro de 60 días; los bebés tienen cobertura por el resto del segmento perinatal. Solicite Healthy Texas Women Plus para atención adicional y use clínicas FQHC. (hhs.texas.gov)
Transporte: Use el Programa de Transporte Médico (1‑877‑633‑8747) o la línea de transporte de su plan; hay ayuda para gasolina (ITP) y viajes el mismo día en casos urgentes. (hhs.texas.gov)
Apoyo de lactancia/WIC: Solicite Texas WIC y llame a la Línea de Lactancia 1‑855‑550‑6667; hay consultas por video y centros de lactancia en varias ciudades. (texaswic.org)
Salud mental posparto: Llame o envíe texto al 1‑833‑852‑6262 (Hotline Materna las 24/7) y contacte a Postpartum Support International; para crisis marque 988. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Texas Health & Human Services (HHSC) program pages and handbooks (postpartum extension, Medicaid/CHIP, HTW/HTW Plus, NEMT, application processing, and benefits management). (hhs.texas.gov)
Texas WIC breastfeeding and application resources (hotline, centers, apply). (texaswic.org)
HRSA/MCHB National Maternal Mental Health Hotline and Find a Health Center. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
HealthCare.gov/CMS/KFF on Special Enrollment Periods and FPL. (healthcare.gov)
Texas Workforce Commission for child‑care scholarships and local Boards. (twc.texas.gov)
TDHCA for CEAP and WAP. (tdhca.texas.gov)
County programs: Harris Health, Parkland Health, University Health CareLink, Central Health MAP. (harrishealth.org)

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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 guide is informational and not legal, medical, or financial advice; policies can change. Always confirm eligibility, benefit levels, and provider participation with the official agency or your health plan before making decisions. For emergencies, call 9‑1‑1.

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