HHSC temporarily waives renewal requirements for Medicaid, SNAP

Texas Health and Human Services announced Saturday SNAP and Medicaid benefit renewals currently due will automatically be renewed. This enables existing clients to maintain continuity of coverage during the COVID-19 public health crisis, as well as encourage social distancing. Renewing these applications automatically means people who were up for renewal do not have to call or complete their renewal to receive continuous coverage. SNAP and Medicaid benefits are extended until further notice.

Texas is also waiving interview requirements for households applying for SNAP as authorized by Section 2302 of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Practically, this means:

• households are not required to complete an interview before receiving approval for benefits, provided identity has been verified and mandatory verification steps are completed 
• people do not have to come into an office or call the agency about their application or renewal, meaning HHSC can process applications as they are received and make eligibility determinations faster 

Texans in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP and Medicaid, at YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage their benefits.