Wondering if you make too much for Pregnancy Medicaid in Texas? The income limit is higher than regular Medicaid, so many working moms qualify. This guide explains how it works — without the jargon.
Texas Health Help is a community nonprofit. We don't approve benefits, but we help moms across Texas understand the limits and apply — for free.
2026 Pregnancy Medicaid Income Limits (Full Chart)
Pregnancy Medicaid (TP 40) uses 198% of the federal poverty level — a much higher limit than standard Texas Medicaid, so many working moms qualify. The chart below shows the maximum gross monthly household income by household size, effective March 1, 2026.
| Household size | Max monthly income (198% FPL) | Max yearly income |
|---|---|---|
| 2 (you + your baby) | $3,571 | $42,852 |
| 3 | $4,508 | $54,096 |
| 4 | $5,445 | $65,340 |
| 5 | $6,383 | $76,596 |
| 6 | $7,320 | $87,840 |
| 7 | $8,257 | $99,084 |
| 8 | $9,194 | $110,328 |
Source: Texas HHSC Texas Works Handbook C-131.1 (TP 40), effective March 1, 2026. Add about $938/month for each additional household member.
Only gross monthly income counts — there is no asset, savings, or car test. If your income is close to the line, apply anyway: the state does the math for free and also checks you for CHIP Perinatal.
Your Unborn Baby Counts
When the state figures out your income limit, your unborn baby counts as part of your household. If you're expecting twins, that's two. So a single mom expecting one child is counted as a household of two — which raises the income limit in your favor.
What Income Is Counted
You may qualify on income if:
- You're pregnant and living in Texas
- Your household's monthly income is within the program's limit for your size
- You're a working mom with low or moderate income
- You're a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen
Not sure how your household is counted? Apply anyway — the state checks your eligibility for free.
If You Earn a Little Too Much
If your income is just over the Pregnancy Medicaid limit, you may still qualify for CHIP Perinatal, which covers prenatal care and delivery for your baby at higher income levels. One Texas application checks you for both at once.
Related Guides
Not sure if you qualify on income?
Our community navigators help expecting moms in Texas understand the income limits, count their household correctly, and apply — at no cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Pregnancy Medicaid in Texas?+
In 2026, Texas Pregnancy Medicaid covers households at or below 198% of the federal poverty level: $3,571/month for a household of 2, $4,508 for 3, $5,445 for 4, $6,383 for 5, $7,320 for 6, $8,257 for 7, and $9,194 for 8 (effective March 1, 2026). Add about $938/month per extra person.
Does my unborn baby count toward household size?+
Yes. Your unborn baby (or babies, if you're expecting more than one) counts as part of your household. That raises your income limit — a single mom expecting one child counts as a household of two, with a limit of $3,571/month.
Do the income limits change each year?+
Yes. Texas updates the federal poverty level figures each spring. The chart on this page reflects the limits effective March 1, 2026 (Texas Works Handbook C-131.1).
Do I count gross or net income?+
Medicaid generally looks at your household's monthly income before taxes (gross), using your tax household. The state does the math when you apply, so you don't have to calculate it perfectly yourself.
What if I earn a little too much?+
You may still qualify for CHIP Perinatal, which covers prenatal care and delivery for your baby at higher income levels. One Texas application checks you for both programs at once.
Does my partner's income count?+
If you file taxes together or your partner is part of your tax household, their income is usually counted. If you're unsure how your household is counted, apply and let the state review it, or call us for free help.
Is checking my eligibility free?+
Yes. Applying and checking your eligibility is always free. Be cautious of any website or person that charges a fee to apply for Texas Medicaid.
Disclaimer: Texas Health Help (Community Health Access Hub Texas) is a community nonprofit, not a government agency. We do not determine eligibility or approve benefits. Only the State of Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and program administrators can make those decisions. This page is general educational information and is not legal, medical, or financial advice.