TEXAS
What assistance can a single mother receive in Texas?
A single mother with two children in Texas with no income may receive up to $382 in cash assistance, $785 in food benefits, and $2,400 in utility support, along with child care assistance and Medicaid coverage.
| CASH | $382 |
| FOOD | $785 |
| WIC | $52 |
| LIHEAP | $2,400 |
| CHILD CARE | ✓ |
| MEDICAID | ✓ |
| PELL GRANT | $7,395 |
For the 2026—2027 academic year, a single mother in a household of 3 in Texas can earn up to $58,095 and still qualify for the maximum Pell grant of $7,395.
This is an unofficial benefits estimator. No personal data is collected or stored. Actual amounts may vary based on individual circumstances, location, eligibility criteria, and recent data updates at the time of application.
Texas Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Texas TANF provides temporary financial and medical assistance to neediest children as well as the parents or relatives with whom they are living.
In Texas, TANF serves only very poor families with children with assets not exceeding $1,000 and countable incomes of not more than $188 per month for a family of three.
As the focus of TANF is self-sufficiency through work, families who receive cash assistance must actively seek employment or participate in work activities.
How much cash assistance can I get in Texas?
In Texas, TANF benefits vary by household size, income, and available resources. A family of three with no income may receive up to $382 per month in cash assistance.
| Household Size | Payment |
|---|---|
| 2 | $331 |
| 3 | $382 |
| 4 | $459 |
| 5 | $510 |
| 6 | $586 |
| 7 | $636 |
| 8 | $724 |
How do I get a one time TANF in Texas?
One-time TANF of up to $1,000 in cash is also available for families in crisis. This assistance is limited to once in a 12-month period for eligible families.
Call (877) 541-7905 for help with the application process.
How do I apply for TANF in Texas?
Applications for TANF can be made online through Your Texas Benefits which is the one-stop portal for all Texas residents to apply for benefits, including TANF.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
HHSC Benefits Assistance
(877) 541-7905
Texas Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Texas SNAP helps low-income people and families in Texas with cash assistance to buy the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet.
As a condition of eligibility, SNAP recipients who are not exempt must either meet the general SNAP work requirements or the ABAWD work requirements.
New, stricter SNAP work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) in Texas began on September 1, 2025. These rules require adults aged 18–64 to work or participate in training for at least 20 hours a week to avoid a 3-month benefit limit.
What is the income limit for SNAP in Texas?
Most families in Texas with gross income up to 165% of the federal poverty level, or about $3,664 per month for a family of three, may qualify for food assistance.
| Household Size | 100% | 165% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,304 | $2,152 |
| 2 | $1,763 | $2,908 |
| 3 | $2,221 | $3,664 |
| 4 | $2,679 | $4,421 |
| 5 | $3,138 | $5,177 |
| 6 | $3,596 | $5,933 |
| 7 | $4,054 | $6,689 |
| 8 | $4,513 | $7,446 |
How do I sign up for food stamps in Texas?
To apply for SNAP benefits, you may do so at Your Texas Benefits which is the online platform to apply for social benefits in the State of Texas.
Once your application is received, an eligibility interview with a caseworker will then be arranged, either in person or by phone.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
HHSC Benefits Assistance
(877) 541-7905
Texas National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
For the 2025–26 and 2026–27 school years, students who qualify for reduced-price school meals will receive both breakfast and lunch at no cost, regardless of income .
The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally-funded meal program that provides nutritious, low-cost or free lunches to eligible students in participating Texas schools.
Under federal guidelines, 1 only students from families whose incomes are at or below 130% of the poverty line are eligible for free breakfast and lunch at school. Families with incomes between 130% and 185% of the poverty line pay a reduced price for meals.
| Household Size | 130% | 185% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,695 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $2,291 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $2,887 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $4,956 |
| 5 | $4,079 | $5,804 |
| 6 | $4,675 | $6,652 |
| 7 | $5,270 | $7,500 |
| 8 | $5,866 | $8,348 |
How do I apply for free lunch in Texas?
Some schools participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and provide free meals to all students, regardless of household income. If your child attends a CEP school, you do not need to submit an application.
If your child attends a school not participating in CEP, you can apply for free or reduced-price meals by completing the Free and Reduced-Price School Meals Application provided by your child’s school or district.
Texas Department of Agriculture
School Nutrition Helpline
(877) 839-6325
Texas Special Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Texas WIC is a nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition, and stay healthy.
It provides monthly benefits for buying healthy foods to supplement their diet. Additional benefits include nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and social services.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for WIC:
- Live in Texas.
- Be a pregnant, postpartum or breastfeeding woman, an infant or a child under 5 years old.
- Have a household income less than 185% of the federal poverty limit.
- Have a nutritional need or risk.
What is the income limit for WIC in Texas?
All applicants must be income eligible with incomes not exceeding 185% FPL, and be individually determined by a health professional to be “at nutritional risk”.
| Household Size | ANNUAL LIMIT | MONTLY LIMIT |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $28,953 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $39,128 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $49,303 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $59,478 | $4,956 |
| 5 | $69,653 | $5,804 |
| 6 | $79,828 | $6,652 |
| 7 | $90,003 | $7,500 |
| 8 | $100,178 | $8,348 |
How long can I stay on WIC in Texas?
In Texas, WIC benefits last for different lengths of time depending on who is receiving them:
- Pregnant women: through pregnancy and up to 6 weeks after birth
- Breastfeeding women: up to 12 months after childbirth
- Non-breastfeeding postpartum women: up to 6 months after childbirth
- Infants: from birth until their first birthday
- Children: from age 1 until their 5th birthday
WIC is not automatic. Participants must recertify periodically to continue receiving benefits.
How do I apply for WIC in Texas?
To apply for WIC, complete the initial application form . Once you submit your application, a local WIC office staff member will contact you to set up your first appointment.
Texas Health and Human Services
WIC Nutrition Program
(800) 942-3678
San Antonio WIC Clinic
7424 Military Dr W,
San Antonio, TX 78227
(210) 207-4690
Texas Medicaid
Texas Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income children, families, seniors and people with disabilities who could not otherwise afford private insurance coverage.
Most people who receive Medicaid in Texas are enrolled in one of the following managed care programs:
- STAR
The largest program, serving low-income families, children, and pregnant women. - STAR Kids
Specifically for children and youth (age 20 and younger) with disabilities. - STAR Health
Coordinated healthcare for children in foster care. - STAR+PLUS
For adults 65 and older or adults with disabilities, covering health care and long-term services, including nursing home care or home care.
What is the income limit for Medicaid in Texas?
Because Texas has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, eligibility for non-disabled adults is limited to parents with incomes below 15% of the poverty level whose child is enrolled in Medicaid.
| texas Medicaid | 144% | 198% | 15% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,878 | $2,582 | $196 |
| 2 | $2,538 | $3,490 | $264 |
| 3 | $3,198 | $4,397 | $333 |
| 4 | $3,858 | $5,305 | $402 |
| 5 | $4,518 | $6,212 | $471 |
| 6 | $5,178 | $7,120 | $539 |
| 7 | $5,838 | $8,027 | $608 |
| 8 | $6,498 | $8,935 | $677 |
How do I apply for Medicaid in Texas?
Go to a Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) benefits office near you or apply online through Your Texas Benefits and choose “Apply for new benefits.”
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Medicaid & CHIP Services
(800) 335 8957
Texas Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Texas CHIP is designed for children whose families who earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid, yet cannot afford to buy private insurance.
With CHIP, kids from low-income families can receive free health coverage for various medical services such as routine check-ups, dental and vision care, prescription drugs, hospital visits and lab tests.
Depending on your income, you may have to pay an enrollment fee ($0 - $50 a year)2 and co-pay for doctor visits and medicine, based on the service and range from $3 - $25.
| Enrollment Fee | INCOME LIMIT |
|---|---|
| $0 | ≤ 151% |
| $35 | ≤ 186% |
| $50 | ≤ 201% |
What is the income limit for CHIP in Texas?
In Texas, children in families with incomes up to at least 201% of the federal poverty level, or about $4,464 per month for a family of three, are eligible for CHIP.
| Household Size | 201% |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,621 |
| 2 | $3,543 |
| 3 | $4,464 |
| 4 | $5,385 |
| 5 | $6,306 |
| 6 | $7,228 |
| 7 | $8,149 |
| 8 | $9,070 |
To apply for health coverage, you will need to fill out and submit an application to Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Medicaid & CHIP Services
(800) 252-8263
Once you’re approved for Medicaid or CHIP, you’ll choose a health plan for your child from the ones available in your service area .
Healthy Texas Women
Healthy Texas Women (HTW) is a program dedicated to offering comprehensive women’s health and family planning to eligible women ages 15–44 in Texas.
Under the HTW program, eligible low-income women may get preventive health screenings, women’s health exams, and family planning, including contraception, at no cost.
If you are currently on Medicaid for Pregnant Women, you may be automatically enrolled in HTW once your 12-month postpartum coverage ends.
What is the income limit for Healthy Texas Women?
Healthy Texas Women (HTW) income limits vary by family size, but generally require income at or below 204% of the federal poverty level.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,661 |
| 2 | $3,596 |
| 3 | $4,531 |
| 4 | $5,466 |
| 5 | $6,401 |
| 6 | $7,336 |
| 7 | $8,271 |
| 8 | $9,206 |
If you are enrolled in HTW and become pregnant, you will be referred to Medicaid for Pregnant Women because HTW does not cover prenatal care or delivery.
How do I apply for Healthy Texas Women?
If you are currently uninsured, you can apply for Healthy Texas Women over the phone by calling 2-1-1, or apply online through Your Texas Benefits .
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Healthy Texas Women
(877) 541-7905
Texas CHIP Perinatal
Texas CHIP Perinatal is a program that provides limited health coverage for pregnant women and their unborn children who are not eligible for Medicaid due to immigration status.
CHIP Perinatal coverage includes:
- Prenatal care, including referrals for specialty services
- Up to two postpartum visits within 60 days of giving birth
- Emergency care for emergency medical conditions
CHIP perinatal care is provided by all CHIP health plans throughout the state. Women can apply for coverage online at Your Texas Benefits .
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
CHIP Perinatal Member Services
(888) 760-2600
Texas Child Care Services (CCS) Program
Parents in Texas who work, attend school or participate in job training may be eligible for financial assistance, also known as subsidy, to cover a portion or, in some cases, all of the cost of child care.
As a condition of eligibility, parents are required to work for a combined total of at least 50 hours a week or 25 hours a week for a single-parent family.
Due to limited funds available, parents applying for child care assitance may be placed on a wait list. The wait time averages about 6-9 months.
What is the income limit for child care assistance in Texas?
Eligibility criteria may vary in different regions of the state but generally, families whose income not exceeding 85% of the State Median Income (SMI) qualify for assistance.
The income limits for families of different sizes are listed in the chart below.
| Household Size | 85% SMI | 85% SMI |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $5,216 | $5,216 |
| 3 | $6,443 | $6,443 |
| 4 | $7,670 | $7,670 |
| 5 | $8,897 | $8,897 |
| 6 | $10,124 | $10,124 |
| 7 | $10,355 | $10,355 |
| 8 | $10,585 | $10,585 |
How do I apply for child care assistance in Texas?
Eligibility requirements may vary by providers. Depending on what part of the state you live in, find your local Workforce Solutions office to access the availability of assistance or waitlist application.
Workforce Solutions
Financial Aid Support Center
(713) 334-5980
Texas Section 8
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Housing Choice Voucher Section 8 Program waiting list is currently closed.
Texas residents who need housing assistance may apply for the Section 8, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. The program offers rental subsidies that allows eligible low-income families to rent a home of their choice on the private market.
Eligibility is based on several factors, including the household’s income, size and composition, citizenship status, assets, medical and childcare expenses. Priority is given to extremely low-income families with children.
Eligibility guidelines define a “extremely low-income family” as one with a total gross household income that is equal to or less than 30% of the local area median income.
How do I apply for Section 8 housing in Texas?
To apply for subsidized housing assistance and to find out if you qualify, please contact one of these HUD Regional Offices:
| Houston HUD | (713) 718-3199 |
| Fort Worth HUD | (817) 978-5700 |
| San Antonio HUD | (210) 475-6806 |
Texas Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
Texas’ Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is a utility assistance program available to help eligible Texas households with their utility bills, particularly those with the lowest incomes and the highest home energy costs.
Eligible households may receive a one-time credit of up to $2,400 in utility assistance.3 As funding is limited, households that include young children, elderly or disabled members are given first priority.
What is the income limit for utility assistance in Texas?
CEAP serves low income households with incomes at or below 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) or about $4,548 per month for a three-person household in Texas.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,815 |
| 2 | $3,682 |
| 3 | $4,548 |
| 4 | $5,414 |
| 5 | $6,280 |
| 6 | $7,147 |
| 7 | $7,309 |
| 8 | $7,472 |
How do I apply for CEAP in Texas?
CEAP is available in each of the 254 Texas counties. If you need assistance with utility bills, call (877) 399-8939 to find the local CEAP service provider nearest you.
Applications are accepted year-round until funds are exhausted. Funds are prioritized for vulnerable households, including older adults, people with disabilities, and families with young children.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
(877) 399-8939
Texas Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
NOTICE: Funding is no longer available for LIHWAP. Households may not receive LIHWAP benefits at this time.
Texas LIHWAP provides eligible low-income households in Texas with up to $2,400 for water and wastewater services, depending on household income.
Households facing the threat of disconnection, or those that have already been disconnected, are eligible for priority consideration.
Applications for LIHWAP are open now through September 30, 2023, pending funding availability. The application process and requirements are the same as for CEAP.
How do I get help paying my water bill in Texas?
If you are in danger of falling behind on your water bills and need help, you may apply for LIHWAP at Texas Utility Help or call (855) 566-2057 for assistance. Help is available in multiple languages.
Texas Unemployment Insurance
Texas Unemployment Insurance (UI) offers temporary financial assistance to employees who lost their jobs through no fault of their own, providing a safety net for them and their families during times of unemployment.
In order to be eligible for unemployment benefits, you must have earned a minimum amount of wages in a recent ‘base period’ and must have:
- wages in at least two quarters of the base period, and
- earned at least $1,400 during the highest paid quarter of the base period, and
- total base-period wages of at least 37 times your Weekly Benefit Amount (WBA)
If your calculated WBA is $200, your total base-period wages must be at least $7,400 (37 × $200), and with wages in your highest quarter being at least $1,400.
How much is unemployment insurance in Texas?
Depending upon your previous earnings, your weekly benefit amount will be between $75 and $605. Most Texans receive unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks.
How do I file for unemployment in Texas?
You may file for unemployment at Unemployment Benefits Services (UBS). If you wish to file by phone, call TWC Tele-Center at (800) 939-6631 to speak to a customer service representative.
Unless exempt, you are required to register as a job seeker on WorkInTexas.com within three business days of applying for benefits.
Texas Workforce Commission
Unemployment Tele-Center
(800) 939-6631
Towards EXcellence, Access and Success (TEXAS) Grant
Towards EXcellence, Access and Success Grant (TEXAS Grant) is state-funded need-based grant awarded to Texas students who are working on their first undergraduate degree.
To be considered, students must first demonstrate financial need as determined by the FAFSA — that is, a 9 month SAI of no more than 6,514, and be enrolled at least three-quarter time.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, eligible students who are pursuing their first-degree may receive up to $5,429 per semester, contingent upon the availability of state funds.
Since funding is limited, you must complete and submit the FAFSA or Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) by January 15 for priority consideration.
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
(512) 427-6101
Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG)
Administered by the state of Texas, Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG) is a state-mandated financial aid program available at all public colleges and universities in Texas.
Texas residents and out of state residents who demonstrate exceptional financial need are eligible. Award amounts may vary based on availability of funds and number of eligible applicants.
Funds are strictly limited. Once a school’s TPEG budget is exhausted for the year, no further awards are made, even to eligible students.
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
(512) 427-6101
Texas State Tution Grant (TSTG)
Texas State Tution Grant (TSTG) is an institutional grant offered by Texas State University and awarded to eligible residents once Texas Public Educational Grant funds are exhausted.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the maximum award for TSTG is $5,300 for undergraduate students or up to $3,900 for graduates.
TSTG is contingent on the availability of state funds and may be reduced or discontinued if those funds are no longer available.
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
(512) 427-6101
Footnotes
-
For two years during the pandemic, federal waivers allowed every Texas student to receive free school meals, regardless of family income. Such program was sunsetted in 2022. ↩
-
The maximum benefit amount per household is $12,300 per program year and could be reached if a household received up to $2,400 in Crisis Assistance, $2,400 in Utility Assistance, and a $7,500 repair or replacement of a heating or cooling unit or crisis-related purchase of portable air conditioning/window units/evaporative coolers and heating units. ↩