Texas · Medicaid
Medicaid in Texas
Looking for Medicaid eligibility in Texas? Here is how this coverage lane works specifically for Texas residents, what it costs, and how to get it.
Facts on this page checked Jan 15, 2026. Sources are listed at the end.
How it works here
Medicaid, explained for Texas.
Texas has not adopted ACA Medicaid expansion, so adult eligibility is more limited — often restricted to specific categories like pregnancy, disability, or families with very low incomes.
Medicaid in Texas provides free or very low-cost comprehensive coverage for those who qualify, and you can apply year-round — there is no enrollment window.
If you do not qualify for Medicaid in Texas, a subsidized Marketplace plan through HealthCare.gov is usually the next best option.
Texas Medicaid eligibility for adults remains relatively limited because the state has not adopted ACA Medicaid expansion.
Children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and certain very-low-income parents may still qualify, but many working adults fall into a coverage gap between Medicaid and subsidy-eligible Marketplace income bands.
Residents who do not qualify for Medicaid should start at HealthCare.gov to estimate subsidies; the uninsured rate in Texas remains among the highest of large states, so subsidy screening is especially important.
Texas facts
- Marketplace
- HealthCare.gov
- Medicaid expansion
- Not adopted
- Uninsured rate
- ~16.4%
Open enrollment 2027
When Texas can enroll.
- Opens
- Nov 1, 2026
- Sun
- Enroll by, for Jan 1 coverage
- Dec 15, 2026
- Tue
- Last day to enroll
- Jan 15, 2027
- Fri
Texas residents enroll at HealthCare.gov. Enroll after Dec 15 and coverage usually starts February 1. Outside this window, a qualifying life event (a move, a new baby, losing other coverage) can open a Special Enrollment Period.
Medicare is different.Medicare’s annual enrollment runs Oct 15 to Dec 7, 2026. For Medicare help, visit our sister site OLYRON Medicare or Medicare.gov.
Dates checked Oct 15, 2026. Sources: HealthCare.gov: dates and deadlines; CMS statement, Jul 27, 2026.
More in this state
Other coverage in Texas.
- ACA Marketplace plansSubsidy-eligible major-medical plans sold on the exchange.
- Health sharingMember-funded medical cost sharing — not insurance.
- Short-term plansTemporary coverage to bridge a gap — limited benefits.
- MedicareOriginal Medicare, Advantage, and Medigap for 65+ and eligible.
- DentalStandalone and bundled dental coverage options.
- VisionEye exams, glasses, and contacts coverage.
- TelehealthVirtual primary and urgent care memberships.
Questions
Good questions, short answers.
Who qualifies for Medicaid in Texas?
Texas limits adult Medicaid to specific categories; check HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid agency for current rules.
Can I apply for Medicaid any time in Texas?
Yes — unlike Marketplace plans, Medicaid enrollment is open year-round for those who qualify.
Did Texas expand Medicaid?
No. Texas has not adopted ACA Medicaid expansion, so adult eligibility is more limited; Marketplace subsidies may still help.
Sources
- Medicaid.gov — federal Medicaid program information · reviewed 2026-01-15
- KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) — health policy research · reviewed 2026-01-15
- OLYRON HealthMatch editorial methodology — how we source and rate options · reviewed 2026-01-15
Before the rush
Ready to see plans in Texas?
A licensed advisor can walk through the options where you live. Free, no obligation.
- Free
- No obligation
- About 2 minutes