
How to Apply for Medicaid, CHIP & CHIP Perinatal in Texas.
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Determine Eligibility.
You may qualify if you are:
• Pregnant
• A parent or guardian of a child under 19
• A child under 19
• A young adult under 21 who was in foster care  
Texas Medicaid and CHIP are income-based programs. Eligibility depends on household size and income. You can check your eligibility using the Your Texas Benefits website.  -
Gather Required Documents.
Before applying, collect the following:
• Proof of identity: Social Security numbers for all applying individuals
• Proof of income: Pay stubs, recent tax returns, or a letter from your employer
• Proof of citizenship or legal residency: U.S. birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents
• Proof of expenses: Receipts or statements for childcare, child support, or alimony payments   -
Submit Your Application.
You have multiple options:
1. Online
• Visit YourTexasBenefits.com
• Create an account or log in
• Complete and submit the application online 
2. By Phone
• Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905
• After selecting your language, press 2 to speak with a representative 
3. By Mail
• Download and print the application from Your Texas Benefits
• Fill it out and mail it to: 
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
P.O. Box 149024
Austin, TX 78714-9968
4. In Person
• Locate a local benefits office or community partner for assistance
• Find a location near you at Your Texas Benefits -
Wait for Processing.
• Medicaid and CHIP: Processing can take up to 45 days
• CHIP Perinatal: Processing can take up to 15 business days
You can check the status of your application by logging into your account on YourTexasBenefits.com or by calling 2-1-1. -
Choose a Health Plan & Provider.
Once approved:
• You’ll receive an enrollment packet
• Select a health plan and primary care provider (PCP) from the options provided
• If you need assistance, call the CHIP Help Line at 1-800-964-2777 -
Need Assistance?
• Application Help: Call 1-888-559-7526 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT)
• General Inquiries: Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905
For more detailed information, visit the Texas Health and Human Services website.
