How to Change Illinois Medicaid to Texas Medicaid

Because Medicaid is a state-run program and each state has its own rules about who qualifies, when you move out of a state, your benefits do not transfer to the new state. If you are currently receiving Medicaid in Illinois, you must notify your local county office in Illinois about your move. In addition, if you wish to continue receiving Medicaid benefits after your move to Texas, you will have to apply for benefits with Texas' Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) once you have moved there.

Instructions

Before Leaving Illinois

• 1

  Find your local Department of Human Services (DHS) Family Community Resource Center (FCRC) office in Illinois by using the office locator on the DHS website.

• 2

  Tell the DHS office that you will be moving out of state to begin the process of canceling your Medicaid benefits in Illinois.

• 3

  Apply for Texas Medicaid by obtaining an application packet from Texas' Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), the agency that handles Medicaid applications. You may download and print an application from HHSC's website or call 877-541-7905 and request that an application be mailed to you.

• 4

  Review the application packet once you have received it and complete the application form.

• 5

  Gather the required documentation for applying to Medicaid in Texas. Some examples of documentation required include proof of identity; your Social Security number; citizenship; proof of income and resources; living expenses; and medical expenses.

• 6

  Find your local HHSC county office in Texas by calling 877-541-7905 or by going to Your Texas Benefits, HHSC's website where you can apply for benefits. After navigating to Your Texas Benefits, locate the top navigation bar and click on "Find an office."

After Arriving in Texas

• 7

  Establish your Texas residency once you have arrived in Texas since only residents of Texas are Medicaid-eligible. According to the Unofficial DMV Guide, if you want to establish your residency in Texas, you must apply for a Texas driver's license within 90 days of relocating. You must also register your vehicle within 30 days of moving to Texas.

• 8

  Mail, fax or bring your completed application and supporting documentation to your local county office in Texas once you have moved to your new residence in Texas.

• 9

  You will receive a letter stating whether or not you are eligible for Medicaid benefits in Texas.