How to Apply for the Lone Star Card

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) offers the Lone Star Card to qualified applicants of certain Texas state assistance programs. Getting the plastic card requires filling out an application. You’ll also need to be approved for either Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits.

Card recipients can receive health care support and services, cash and food stamp benefits. The card works like a debit card, with funds deducted as purchases are made at the checkout counter. Benefits are added into the card account each month for family use.

Instructions

• 1

  Gather personal information to prepare for the eligibility-screening process. This will include your household financial information, including amount of cash, bank account balances, rental payments, utility bills, income statements, childcare payments, medical information, and information about current or former aid benefits.

• 2

  Determine your eligibility for Texas state benefits. Call 2-1-1 to speak to a person or use the web portal at yourtexasbenefits.com. Go through the screening process and answer questions that will help you determine your level of household benefits.

• 3

  Check your eligibility for SNAP benefits. Use the SNAP Benefits Estimator to help you determine your eligibility for this benefit.

• 4

  Review the Cash Help for Families (TANF) information at “How to Get Help” to determine if you and your family are eligible for TANF benefits.

• 5

  Complete the online application form at Yourtexasbenefits.com. One application is all you need to apply to the following programs: food stamps (SNAP), medical assistance including children's health insurance, TANF, medicare savings programs and long term care services and support.

• 6

  Get assistance filling out the application. If you need help with the application, call 2-1-1 to speak to a HHSC representative who can guide you through the process. Or visit your local HHSC office, or see one of your local community groups that work with HHSC. You can also fax or mail in your completed application. Online help information is available at “How to Get Help.”

• 7

  Wait to hear back from your HHSC representative to learn if you and your family will receive the Lone Star Card and where you can use it.