Your Texas Benefits Login: How to Apply for SNAP & Medicaid

Your Texas Benefits: The Complete 2026 Guide to Applying, Managing, and Renewing Benefits

Your Texas Benefits (YourTexasBenefits.com) is the official online portal run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) for applying for and managing SNAP food benefits, Medicaid, CHIP, and TANF cash assistance. You can apply online, by phone at 2-1-1, in person at an HHSC office, or by mail. Most applications are processed within 30 to 45 days. Expedited SNAP benefits may be available within 7 days for households in emergency situations.

Quick Facts

What Is Your Texas Benefits?

Your Texas Benefits is Texas’s official online portal for applying for and managing public assistance benefits. It is administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and allows Texas residents to apply for multiple programs through a single application, upload documents, check case status, report changes, and complete renewals — all online, 24 hours a day.

The portal replaced the older paper-based system and is accessible through the website YourTexasBenefits.com and the Your Texas Benefits mobile app. One application is screened against all major programs at once, so you do not need to file separate forms for Medicaid and SNAP, or for Medicaid and CHIP.

What You Can Do Through the Portal

• Apply for benefits: Submit one application for SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, and/or TANF

• Check your case status: View the status of your application or existing benefits

• Upload documents: Submit verification documents electronically via the mobile app or website

• Report changes: Update your address, income, household size, and other case information

• Complete renewals: Renew Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and other benefits online

• View benefit details: See your current benefit amounts and case information

• Join interest lists: Sign up for Medicaid waiver program interest lists (CLASS, DBMD, MDCP, STAR+PLUS HCBS)

• Go paperless: Sign up to receive notices and forms through the app

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility for Texas benefits depends on the specific program. Each program has its own income limits, household requirements, and other rules. Texas has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which significantly affects who can get health coverage.

SNAP (Food Benefits)

Who qualifies:

• Households with gross monthly income at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and net income at or below 100% FPL

• Households where all members are age 60+ or have disabilities may qualify through the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP)

• Households that meet work requirements (most adults ages 16–59 must follow work rules)

Who does NOT qualify:

• Households with income above the applicable limits

• Most adults ages 18–64 without children under 14 in the home who fail to meet work requirements (limited to 3 months in 3 years)

• Undocumented immigrants

Common exceptions:

• Households with no income may qualify for expedited SNAP benefits within 7 days

• People with disabilities are exempt from work requirements

• Adults caring for a child under age 6 are exempt from work requirements

Medicaid

Who qualifies:

• Children and teens in low-income households

• Pregnant women

• Adults age 65 and older

• People with disabilities (including blindness)

• Adults caring for a child in a very low-income home

Who does NOT qualify:

• Most adults without children or a qualifying disability have no Medicaid pathway in Texas, regardless of how little they earn. This is because Texas did not expand Medicaid under the ACA.

• Texas has approximately 617,000 adults in the “coverage gap” — they earn too little for Marketplace subsidies but cannot get Medicaid.

Common exceptions:

• Emergency Medicaid is available regardless of immigration status for emergency medical conditions

• Pregnant women may qualify regardless of citizenship status for pregnancy-related coverage

CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)

Who qualifies:

• Children under age 19 whose family income is above the Medicaid limit but below 201% FPL

• Texas residents who are U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants

Who does NOT qualify:

• Children whose family income exceeds 201% FPL

• Children who are eligible for Medicaid (they must enroll in Medicaid instead)

TANF (Cash Assistance)

Who qualifies:

• Families with children age 18 and younger

• Pregnant women

• Relatives caring for related children

• Families with very little to no income and resources

Who does NOT qualify:

• Families without minor children (except pregnant women)

• Families whose income exceeds the very low TANF limits

• Families who have received TANF for 60 months (federal lifetime limit)

Common exceptions:

• Child-only cases (relatives caring for children) have higher income limits and no time limit

• A grandparent or relative caring for a related child may qualify even if their income is higher than the chart shows

Income Limits

Income limits vary significantly by program and household size. Below are the 2026 income guidelines for Texas’s major benefit programs.

SNAP Income Limits (Effective October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026)

Important: Texas SNAP uses two income tests. Most households must pass both the gross income test (130% FPL) and the net income test (100% FPL, calculated after deductions). Some households with elderly or disabled members may only need to meet the net income test.

SNAP Maximum Monthly Benefit Amounts

Medicaid Income Limits for Children and Pregnant Women (Effective March 1, 2026)

For Medicaid eligibility, pregnant women may be counted as two persons.

TANF Income Limits and Maximum Monthly Payments

Asset Limits

Most Texas benefit programs do not have strict asset tests for regular eligibility. This is important for families who own a car or have modest savings.

For long-term care Medicaid in 2026, a single applicant cannot have gross monthly income above $2,982 and cannot have more than $2,000 in countable assets. A Qualified Income Trust (Miller Trust) may be required if income exceeds the cap.

Household Requirements

Your “household” includes the people who live with you and share resources. Understanding who counts in your household is critical because it affects your income limits and benefit amount.

SNAP Household Rules

• Who counts: People who live together and buy and prepare meals together

• Who always counts: Spouses and children under age 22 living in the same home (even if they don’t share meals)

• Separate households: An elderly person (60+) with a permanent disability may be a separate SNAP household under certain conditions

• TSAP households: Households where all members are age 60+ or have disabilities qualify for the simplified application

Medicaid Household Rules

• Who counts: Tax filers, their spouses, and their tax dependents

• Who may count: Unborn children count as a household member for pregnant women

• Children: Medicaid eligibility for children is based on the child’s household income

TANF Household Rules

• Who counts: The children in the home and the adults responsible for them

• Child-only cases: Minor children living with guardians other than parents may qualify for child-only assistance with no time limit

• Pregnant women: May qualify for individual assistance

Citizenship Rules

To receive most Texas benefits, you must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen. You will need to provide proof of your citizenship or immigration status as part of your application.

Acceptable Proof of Citizenship

• U.S. passport

• Birth certificate

• Certificate of Naturalization

• Certificate of U.S. Citizenship

• Social Security card (in some cases)

Qualified Non-Citizen Status

The following immigration categories may qualify for benefits:

• Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR/Green Card holders) — generally eligible for SNAP after 5 years

• Refugees

• Asylees

• Cuban/Haitian entrants

• Individuals paroled into the U.S. for at least one year

• Conditional entrants

• Victims of trafficking

• Certain battered spouses and children

• Compacts of Free Association (COFA) citizens

Important: U.S. citizen children in mixed-status households are fully eligible for benefits regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

Immigration Eligibility

Immigration eligibility rules are complex and vary by program. Here’s what you need to know for 2026.

SNAP Immigration Rules

• U.S. citizens: Eligible

• Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs): Generally eligible after 5 years

• Refugees, asylees, and other humanitarian immigrants: Eligibility has been restricted in 2026; many categories that were previously eligible may no longer qualify

• Undocumented immigrants: Never eligible for federal SNAP benefits under any administration

• Mixed-status households: U.S. citizen children remain eligible even if parents are not

Medicaid Immigration Rules

• Qualified non-citizens: May be eligible for Medicaid

• Some categories: Have a 5-year waiting period for LPRs

• Emergency Medicaid: Available regardless of immigration status for emergency medical conditions

• Pregnant women: May qualify for pregnancy-related Medicaid regardless of immigration status

• Children: May qualify for Medicaid or CHIP regardless of immigration status in some cases

TANF Immigration Rules

• TANF cash assistance generally requires qualified non-citizen status

• Refugees may qualify for Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) for their first 12 months in the United States

State Differences

Texas administers benefits through a state-run system. Unlike Ohio, which uses a state-county partnership, Texas HHSC administers benefits centrally through a statewide eligibility system. This means:

• Consistent rules apply across all Texas counties

• Application processing is handled by HHSC eligibility staff, sometimes at central processing centers

• Local HHSC offices are available for in-person assistance

• Community partners throughout the state can help with applications

Required Documents

You will need to provide verification documents to complete your application. Gathering these before you apply can speed up the process.

General Documents Needed

• Identity: Driver’s license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate

• Social Security Numbers: For all household members applying

• Immigration status: For non-citizens (Resident card I-551, I-94, or other immigration documents)

• Residency: Proof of Texas address (utility bill, lease, piece of mail with your address)

Income Documents

• Earned income: Pay stubs for the last 30 days, W-2 forms, employer letter

• Self-employment: Tax returns, business records

• Unearned income: Social Security award letters, unemployment statements, pension documents

• Child support: Court orders, payment records

Program-Specific Documents

How to Apply

You can apply for Texas benefits online, by phone, in person, or by mail. The online portal is the fastest and most convenient method.

Step 1: Create a YourTexasBenefits Account

1. Visit YourTexasBenefits.com

2. Select “Create a new account”

3. Choose a username (minimum 6 characters) and password

4. Enter your email address and phone number

5. Set up security questions

6. Confirm your account through the verification email or code

Step 2: Start Your Application

1. Log in to your account

2. Select “Apply for Benefits”

3. Complete the application questions

4. Review and submit your application

Step 3: Upload Documents

After submitting your application, upload any required verification documents through the portal’s document upload feature or the mobile app.

Step 4: Complete Your Interview (if required)

SNAP applications typically require a phone interview with an HHSC eligibility worker. Medicaid applications may also require an interview in some cases.

Alternative Application Methods

• By phone: Call 2-1-1 (toll-free), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central. Select option 2.

• In person: Visit a local HHSC benefits office. Find one at YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling 2-1-1.

• By mail: Download Form H1010 (Texas Works Application) or Form H1200 (for elderly/disabled applicants) from the HHSC website or request a paper copy by calling 2-1-1.

Online Application

The online application at YourTexasBenefits.com is available 24/7 and is the fastest way to apply. One application is screened against all four major programs — SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, and TANF — at once.

Tips for a Successful Online Application

• Create an account first so you can save your progress and return later

• Gather your documents before you start to avoid leaving fields blank

• Complete every field you can. Incomplete applications take longer to process.

• Double-check your information before submitting — errors delay processing

• Upload documents immediately after submitting your application

• Check your portal account regularly for messages from HHSC

• Use a compatible browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge

What Happens After You Submit

Processing Time

Most Texas benefit applications are processed within 30 to 45 days. Processing times vary by program.

What Delays Processing

• Incomplete application

• Missing verification documents

• Failure to complete a required interview

• High application volume

• Disability determination for Medicaid

• Failure to respond to HHSC requests for information

Payment Schedule

Benefit payments are issued on a schedule determined by your case and program. Here’s what to expect:

SNAP (Lone Star Card)

SNAP benefits are loaded onto your Lone Star Card each month. Texas uses a staggered issuance schedule based on the last two digits of your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. Benefits are typically available between the 1st and the 15th of the month.

Important: Effective April 1, 2026, SNAP recipients cannot use benefits to purchase candy or sweetened drinks, including beverages made with water that contain 5 grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener.

Medicaid and CHIP

Medicaid and CHIP do not issue cash payments. Instead, they cover medical services directly through managed care organizations (STAR, STAR+PLUS, STAR Kids).

TANF (Cash Assistance)

TANF benefits are issued via the Lone Star Card on a monthly basis. The amount depends on your family size and composition.

Renewal Process

You must renew your benefits to keep receiving them. Renewal requirements vary by program.

Medicaid and CHIP Renewal

Medicaid and CHIP must be renewed every 12 months. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail approximately 60–90 days before your renewal date.

How to renew:

1. Log in to your YourTexasBenefits.com account

2. Click “Manage” and find the case that says “Ready for renewal”

3. Click “Renew Benefits” to begin

4. Review your pre-filled information

5. Update any changes

6. Upload required documents

7. Submit your renewal

If you miss your renewal deadline:

• Your coverage may be terminated

• Contact HHSC at 2-1-1 as soon as possible to discuss options

• You may need to reapply

SNAP Renewal

SNAP recertification requirements vary based on your household circumstances. Most households must recertify every 6 months. TSAP households (all members age 60+ or disabled) receive 36-month certification periods.

TANF Renewal

TANF has a 60-month federal lifetime limit. You must comply with work requirements and program rules to continue receiving benefits. Renewal requirements will be explained in your notice.

Reasons Applications Are Denied

Applications can be denied for several reasons. Understanding common denial reasons can help you avoid them.

Appeals Process

If your application is denied or your benefits are reduced, you have the right to appeal. In Texas, this is called a Fair Hearing.

How to Request a Fair Hearing

1. Read your notice carefully. It will state the deadline for requesting a hearing (typically 90 days from the date of the notice).

2. Request a hearing by calling 2-1-1 and selecting option 2.

3. Or request in writing by mail or by visiting a local HHSC office.

4. Or request online through your YourTexasBenefits.com account.

What Happens at a Fair Hearing

• An impartial hearing officer reviews your case

• You can present evidence and witnesses

• You can represent yourself or have someone represent you

• The hearing may be conducted by phone or in person

• A decision is issued after the hearing

Continuing Benefits During Appeal

If you appeal before your benefits are reduced or terminated, you may be able to continue receiving benefits at the current level until the hearing decision is issued. If you lose the appeal, you may have to repay those benefits.

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your application is processed smoothly.

1. Not creating an account before applying. While you can apply as a guest, you won’t be able to check your status or upload documents without an account.

2. Leaving fields blank. Walking away mid-application to find documents is the most common reason applicants leave fields blank.

3. Not uploading documents. Missing documents are the most common cause of delays.

4. Missing your interview. SNAP applications require a phone interview. Check your phone and portal messages regularly.

5. Not reporting changes. You must report changes in income, household size, and address within 10 days.

6. Missing renewal deadlines. Mark your calendar and set reminders.

7. Not checking your portal messages. HHSC communicates through the portal.

8. Assuming you’re not eligible. Many people qualify who think they don’t. Apply and let HHSC determine eligibility.

9. Not appealing a denial. If you believe the decision is wrong, appeal it. You have rights.

10. Not using available help. Community partners throughout Texas can help you apply for free.

Recent Changes

Several important changes took effect in 2025 and 2026 that affect Texas benefits.

SNAP Work Requirement Expansion (2026)

The work requirement age threshold extended to age 64. Previously, able-bodied adults without dependents had to meet work requirements up to age 54. Under the new law, that threshold extends to age 64. Recipients must work at least 20 hours per week or 80 hours per month and document their hours to continue receiving benefits.

SNAP Purchase Restrictions (April 2026)

Effective April 1, 2026, SNAP recipients cannot use benefits to purchase candy or sweetened drinks, including beverages made with water that contain 5 grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener. Candy bars, gum, taffy, and chocolate- or yogurt-coated items are also prohibited.

SNAP Immigration Eligibility Changes (2026)

Eligibility has been reduced primarily to U.S. citizens and some legal permanent residents. Access has been removed for other legally present immigrants, including some refugees, asylum seekers, and survivors of domestic violence or trafficking.

TANF Payment Changes

TANF maximum monthly payments for a family of three with one parent or caregiver are approximately $382 per month. A one-time $1,000 payment is available through the One-Time TANF (OT-TANF) program for certain relatives caring for related children.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Your Texas Benefits?

Your Texas Benefits (YourTexasBenefits.com) is Texas’s official online portal for applying for and managing public assistance programs, including SNAP food benefits, Medicaid, CHIP, and TANF cash assistance. It is run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and is available 24/7.

2. How do I create a Your Texas Benefits account?

Go to YourTexasBenefits.com and select “Create a new account.” Choose a username (minimum 6 characters) and password, enter your email and phone number, set up security questions, and confirm your account through the verification email or code sent to your phone.

3. What programs can I apply for through Your Texas Benefits?

You can apply for SNAP (food benefits), Medicaid, CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), CHIP Perinatal, TANF (cash assistance), Healthy Texas Women, and the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP) through the portal.

4. How long does it take to process an application?

Most SNAP and TANF applications are processed within 30 days. Medicaid applications can take up to 45 days. Disability-based Medicaid applications can take up to 90 days. Expedited SNAP benefits may be available within 7 days for households in emergency situations.

5. What is the income limit for SNAP in Texas?

For a family of four, the maximum monthly gross income limit is $4,421 (130% FPL). Households must also pass a net income test at 100% FPL after deductions. Income limits vary by household size.

6. Can I get Medicaid in Texas if I don’t have children?

No. Texas did not expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Most adults without children or a qualifying disability have no Medicaid pathway in Texas, regardless of how little they earn. You may qualify for Marketplace coverage at healthcare.gov instead.

7. What is the income limit for CHIP in Texas?

CHIP covers children under age 19 whose family income is above the Medicaid limit but below 201% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a family of four, that is approximately $5,386 per month.

8. Can I apply for benefits if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

It depends on your immigration status and the program. Qualified non-citizens, including Lawful Permanent Residents (after 5 years for SNAP), may qualify. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for federal SNAP benefits. Emergency Medicaid is available regardless of immigration status.

9. How do I renew my Medicaid?

You must renew your Medicaid every 12 months. Log in to your YourTexasBenefits.com account, click “Manage,” find the case that says “Ready for renewal,” and click “Renew Benefits.” You can also renew by phone at 2-1-1 or by mail.

10. What happens if I miss my renewal deadline?

If your coverage is terminated due to non-renewal, contact HHSC at 2-1-1 as soon as possible to discuss options. You may need to reapply. Missing the deadline may lead to a loss of benefits, but options may still be available.

11. How do I check my application status?

Log in to your YourTexasBenefits.com account and view your case status. You can also call 2-1-1 to speak with someone about your case.

12. What is the Lone Star Card?

The Lone Star Card is Texas’s EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card for SNAP and TANF benefits. It works like a debit card and can be used at most grocery stores and retailers that accept SNAP.

13. What are the new SNAP work requirements for 2026?

As of 2026, work requirements apply to able-bodied adults up to age 64. Recipients must work at least 20 hours per week or 80 hours per month and document their hours. Some people may be exempt, such as those with disabilities or those caring for a child under age 6.

14. What is the Texas Simplified Application Project (TSAP)?

TSAP is a simplified SNAP application process for households where all members are age 60 or older or have disabilities. It provides 36 months of benefits at a time instead of 6 months, requires less paperwork, and has a shorter application.

15. How do I appeal a denial?

You can request a Fair Hearing by calling 2-1-1 and selecting option 2, by writing to HHSC, or by visiting a local HHSC office. You typically have 90 days from the date of your notice to appeal.

16. What documents do I need to apply?

You’ll need proof of identity, Social Security numbers, proof of Texas residency, and income documents (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.). Additional documents may be required depending on the program.

17. Is there a phone number I can call for help?

Yes. Call 2-1-1 (toll-free) or 1-877-541-7905 for general benefits assistance. For Medicaid questions, call 2-1-1 and select option 2.

18. What is the One-Time TANF (OT-TANF) payment?

OT-TANF provides a once-in-a-lifetime payment of $1,000 to certain relatives who care for one or more related children. It is available to families in crisis.

Key Takeaways

1. Your Texas Benefits (YourTexasBenefits.com) is the fastest way to apply for SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, and TANF — available 24/7.

2. Texas did not expand Medicaid. Most adults without children or a qualifying disability cannot get Medicaid in Texas, regardless of income.

3. SNAP income limits are 130% FPL (gross) and 100% FPL (net) for most households. A family of four can earn up to $4,421 per month gross.

4. Most applications are processed within 30 to 45 days. Expedited SNAP benefits may be available within 7 days.

5. SNAP work requirements expanded in 2026 to age 64. Recipients must work 20 hours per week or 80 hours per month and document their hours.

6. SNAP purchase restrictions took effect April 1, 2026. Candy and sweetened drinks can no longer be purchased with the Lone Star Card.

7. Medicaid and CHIP must be renewed every 12 months. Renew online, by phone at 2-1-1, or by mail.

8. TANF provides very low cash benefits (maximum $383/month for a family of four with two parents) but includes work supports and a one-time $1,000 payment for relative caregivers.

9. You have the right to appeal any denial or reduction in benefits by requesting a Fair Hearing within 90 days.

10. Help is available. Call 2-1-1 for assistance, or visit a local HHSC office or community partner in person.

Related Government Benefits

If you qualify for one Texas benefit program, you may qualify for others. Here are related programs to explore.

Official Government Resources

• Your Texas Benefits Portal: YourTexasBenefits.com

• Texas Health and Human Services Commission: hhs.texas.gov

• Texas Medicaid: medicaid.texas.gov

• Texas CHIP: chipmedicaid.org

• Texas WIC: texaswic.org

• Texas Workforce Commission: twc.texas.gov

• Benefits.gov: benefits.gov

• USA.gov: usa.gov

• Social Security Administration: ssa.gov

• Medicare: medicare.gov

• Medicaid.gov: medicaid.gov

• HUD (Section 8): hud.gov

• USDA FNS (SNAP): fns.usda.gov

• HealthCare.gov: healthcare.gov