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How to Apply for Benefits

The process of applying for benefits in Texas is similar across programs. Below is an example of how this wo

Choose How You Want to Apply

You can apply online, by mail or in person at a local Health and Human Services office. Find local offices to apply in person or to mail in your application online.

Fill Out the Application

You’ll need to give information about your family, income, expenses and citizenship. If you’re pregnant, you may need to provide information from your doctor.

Send in Your Application

You can submit your application online, by mail or in person at your local office.

Wait For a Response

After you apply, the state will review your information. They might call you or ask for more documents to help with their decision.

Get a Decision

After the state reviews your application and documents, you’ll get a letter or message about your qualification status for each program you applied for.

Ask For Help

You may have questions as you complete your application and review the decision. You can get help over the phone, online or in person.

What You Need to Apply

No matter which program you apply for, you’ll need:

  • Proof of who you are, like a driver’s license or identification card.
  • Proof of where you live, such as a bill with your address on it.
  • Proof of income, like pay stubs or a letter from your job.
  • Proof that you are pregnant (if you’re applying for Medicaid or CHIP Perinatal).

Where to Get Help

You can get help with your application online, over the phone or in person. Call 2-1-1 to get help with finding services or answers to other questions about benefits programs. You can also get help in person at your local Health and Human Services office. If you’re applying online, use the Help Center on YourTexasBenefits.com to find answers to frequently asked questions.

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Financial Help for Families

Whether you’re dealing with debt, saving for the future, or need help covering utilities or important health care costs, understanding your finances can set your family up for success. Texas offers programs to provide support for basic needs, tax relief and supplemental income for those who qualify. These programs help older adults, people with disabilities and families who have little to no money.  
To learn more about these programs, visit the Financial Help for Families page. 

Eligibility Criteria 

Each benefit program in Texas has its own rules to determine if someone is eligible for services. Below is a list of eligibility rules for every Texas benefit program:

  • Where You Live. You must live in Texas to get these benefits.
  • Income. Most programs are for people or families who don’t make a lot of money. Each program has different income limits based on how many people are in your family.
  • Citizenship or Legal Status. You usually need to be a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant. Some programs may have special rules for children or pregnant women.
  • Special Situations.
    1. For SNAP and TANF, you need to have a low income and few assets.
    2. TANF also requires you to have a child under 18 years old living with you.
    3. For Medicaid and CHIP Perinatal, you need to be pregnant or have children and meet income rules.

To find out if you qualify, visit YourTexasBenefits.com or call 2-1-1. 

Types of Benefits Programs 

Benefits programs in Texas can help people who need help buying food, paying for doctor visits or getting money for basic needs. Below are some of the benefits programs available to families. 

SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help you buy the food you need to stay healthy. SNAP food benefits are put on a Lone Star Card that you use as a credit card at stores. To learn more, visit the Health and Human Services SNAP page.

TANF

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) can provide you with cash payments to help pay for food, clothing, housing and other essential items. The amount of money you receive will depend on family size and income. To learn more, visit the Health and Human Services TANF page.

Medicaid for Pregnant Women and CHIP Perinatal

Pregnant women in Texas can get free health coverage through Medicaid for Pregnant Women or Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) Perinatal. Coverage can help pay for doctor visits, prenatal vitamins, labor and delivery, and checkups after birth. For more details, visit the Medicaid for Pregnant Women and CHIP Perinatal page. If you have questions, visit the CHIP Perinatal FAQs.

Benefit Resources 

Learn more and apply for benefits. 

Your Texas Benefits 

The Your Texas Benefits portal can help connect you with resources like SNAP food benefits, TANF Cash Help and WIC food benefits. Visit YourTexasBenefits.com and answer prescreening questions to find out which benefits you qualify for. You can also use this website to apply for benefits or get help with applications. 
Visit the website or download the Your Texas Benefits mobile app at the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Texas Workforce Commission

The Texas Workforce Commission helps people looking for work in Texas. The commission can help Texans find affordable child care, get job training or apply for unemployment benefits. To find more information and apply for benefits, visit the Texas Workforce Commission website. 

Related Resources

Child Care Assistance
Housing and Utility Assistance