HEALTH COVERAGE STARTS HERE.

Getting covered can make doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health care, and preventive care more affordable. Texas has several routes. Start with the option that fits your situation—and do not stop after one denial.

START WITH TEXAS MEDICAID

Texas Medicaid mainly covers people who meet both income rules and a qualifying category, including certain parents or caretakers of dependent children, pregnant people, adults age 65 or older, and people with disabilities.

Important: Many low-income adults who do not have a dependent child and do not qualify through age or disability will not qualify based on low income alone. Texas Health and Human Services makes the final decision, so apply if you think a category may fit.

HOW TO APPLY FOR MEDICAID

  1. Apply online: Visit YourTexasBenefits.com and choose “Apply for Benefits.”

  2. Apply by phone: Call 2-1-1 and choose the benefits option. If 2-1-1 does not connect, call 1-877-541-7905.

  3. Gather what you have: Photo identification; Social Security number and immigration documents if applicable; household information; recent pay stubs or other income records; and disability or medical records if applying through a disability category.

  4. Watch for requests: Check your mail and Your Texas Benefits account. Send any requested proof by the deadline and keep copies.

Learn about Texas Medicaid and CHIP

IF MEDICAID DOES NOT FIT: APPLY FOR MAP

Central Health’s Medical Access Program (MAP) and MAP Basic help uninsured Travis County residents with low income get local doctor visits, prescriptions, dental care, and other services. MAP is a health coverage program—not health insurance.

Central Health encourages all uninsured Travis County residents to apply. Eligibility is based on income received during the last 30 days. Residents at or below 200% of the federal poverty level may qualify if they meet the other requirements.

  • Apply online: Central Health MAP and MAP Basic

  • Apply by phone or schedule in-person help: Call 512-978-8130, option 1, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

  • Bring: Proof that you live in Travis County, picture ID, proof of household income for the last 30 days, and household-size and insurance information if applicable. Central Health also provides a zero-income statement.

HEALTHCARE.GOV AFTER RELEASE

People on probation, parole, or house arrest—and people living in a residential facility or halfway house—are not considered incarcerated for Marketplace eligibility.

If you were released from jail or prison within the last 60 days, you can use a Special Enrollment Period to choose a Marketplace plan. HealthCare.gov will check whether you qualify for savings.

Apply or learn about coverage after incarceration

FREE ENROLLMENT HELP

Foundation Communities Prosper Health Coverage provides free assistance with affordable health-insurance enrollment for Central Texas individuals and families.

NEED CARE WHILE YOU APPLY?

CommUnityCare offers local clinics and may use a sliding fee scale based on income and household size. Call 512-978-9015. For a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Information checked September 19, 2026. Program rules and income limits can change. This page provides general resource information and is not medical or legal advice. Storch’s Porches does not provide medical care or make eligibility decisions.

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