Does Texas Medicaid Pay for Assisted Living?

Yes, for eligible members — but not the way most families expect. Here is a plain-English look at what Texas Medicaid pays for and what a resident still covers.

Texas Medicaid may help pay for assisted-living services through the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program for eligible members. It generally does not pay the full private-pay rent, and the resident is still responsible for a room-and-board charge.

Many families call believing Medicaid will cover everything, or that it covers nothing. The reality sits in between. Understanding it early prevents painful surprises and helps you plan honestly.

What Medicaid can cover through STAR+PLUS

STAR+PLUS HCBS is designed to help people who would otherwise need nursing-facility care remain in a community setting, including an assisted living facility. Covered services can include:

• Personal care and help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and mobility
• Medication oversight and coordination of care
• Nursing and authorized therapy services
• Care coordination through a managed-care organization (MCO) service coordinator

What Medicaid does not cover

For a full breakdown of the room-and-board charge, see our STAR+PLUS cost and room and board guide.

• Room and board — the cost of housing and meals
• The full private-pay monthly rent of an assisted-living apartment
• Personal expenses that are not part of the approved care plan

Who this applies to

Being enrolled in Medicaid is not the same as being approved for assisted-living waiver services. Members must meet financial requirements and have approved medical necessity for nursing-facility level of care.

Learn the full requirements in our eligibility guide, or read the complete family guide to see how the whole process fits together.

Frequently asked questions

Does Medicaid pay for assisted living in Texas?

For eligible members, Texas Medicaid may help pay for assisted-living services through STAR+PLUS HCBS. It generally does not pay the full private-pay rent, and the resident is still responsible for a room-and-board charge.

Does Medicaid pay the full cost of assisted living?

No. STAR+PLUS HCBS covers approved care and support services, not housing itself. Residents pay a room-and-board charge, and the amount can vary based on the resident's income.

How do I find out if my family member qualifies?

Eligibility involves Texas HHSC for financial and program eligibility, an assessment of medical necessity, and the member's MCO service coordinator. Reunion Inn's admissions team can help you understand the process — call (903) 581-6100.