Renewing Your STAR Coverage
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will mail you a renewal packet before your coverage ends.
If you have a newborn, your coverage might be for one year. Parents of newborns can expect the renewal packet to arrive in the 10th month of coverage.
How to renew
Fill out the Children’s Medicaid Renewal form. Carefully follow the instructions on the letter and form. The barcode on your renewal form is scanned to help your caseworker find you in their computer. This makes things easier and faster to renew your coverage. Your help is also needed to keep the process quick and easy. Write your social security number (SSN) or case number on the top of copies of pay stubs, award letters, bills and statements. This will help the caseworker when working your renewal.
Mail the renewal within 7 days of your renewal notice from HHSC. Your child could lose FirstCare Medicaid benefits if your renewal is not turned in on time or if information is missing.
Before you send back the renewal, check to be sure you have everything:
- Renewal form (completed, signed and dated)
- Proof of income
- Proof for dependent expenses
Cash for families and renewing Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) helps families with children, ages 18 and younger, pay for food, clothing and housing.
Need help?
FirstCare is here to help. If you have questions or need help, call FirstCare STAR Customer Service at 800-431-7798.
Common questions
What happens if my renewal is turned in late?
When you turn in your renewal, keep in mind your case worker will need 4 weeks to work to decide your eligibility. If your renewal is turned in late, then time is lost and there is a possibility that you might lose your FirstCare Medicaid coverage.
It is best to turn in your renewal six weeks before your coverage ends. That means that HHSC must have your renewal in their office six weeks (45 days) before your coverage ends.
What if I did not get a renewal form?
If you did not receive your renewal packet and you need the renewal form, you can find the Children's Medicaid Renewal form online. Click 'get a paper form' at the bottom of the page.
If you use this form, it is best to write your social security number or case number on the bottom of each page. Or you can have a personalized renewal form sent to you, just call 211.
If your question has not been answered, please call us at 800-431-7798.