Texas Hospital Charity Care & Financial Assistance Guide
Discover how to qualify for charity care and financial assistance programs at Texas hospitals. Learn your rights, check your eligibility, and find out how to apply for help with your medical bills.
Last verified: January 28, 2026
Check If You Qualify for Financial Assistance in Texas
Use our free calculator to estimate your eligibility based on your household size and annual income.
Find out if you qualify for charity care or financial assistance based on federal poverty guidelines.
2024 Federal Poverty Level Income Thresholds
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 200% FPL (Free Care) | 400% FPL (Discounted) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,060 | $30,120 | $60,240 |
| 2 | $20,440 | $40,880 | $81,760 |
| 3 | $25,820 | $51,640 | $103,280 |
| 4 | $31,200 | $62,400 | $124,800 |
| 5 | $36,580 | $73,160 | $146,320 |
| 6 | $41,960 | $83,920 | $167,840 |
| 7 | $47,340 | $94,680 | $189,360 |
| 8 | $52,720 | $105,440 | $210,880 |
Texas Charity Care Income Limits
Hospitals in Texas use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine financial assistance eligibility. Generally, patients with income below 200% FPL qualify for free care, and those between 200-400% FPL may receive significant discounts. Exact thresholds vary by hospital. Refer to the calculator table above for FPL income levels.
Your Rights: Texas Hospital Financial Assistance Laws
Texas requires hospitals to have financial assistance policies under state law. While Texas has not expanded Medicaid, the state mandates that hospitals establish and publicize financial assistance and discount policies. County hospital districts and public hospitals provide significant safety-net care for uninsured Texans.
- Texas law requires hospitals to establish and publicize financial assistance policies
- Texas has not expanded Medicaid, leaving over 1 million adults in the coverage gap
- County hospital districts provide significant safety-net care for uninsured residents
- Patients can apply for hospital financial assistance programs even without insurance
Information verified: January 28, 2026
Hospitals in Texas with Financial Assistance Programs
All non-profit hospitals in Texas are required to offer financial assistance under federal law. Here are some of the major hospitals with assistance programs.
Houston, TX
Dallas, TX
Dallas, TX
View financial assistance program →Dallas, TX
Houston, TX
How to Apply for Hospital Charity Care in Texas
Follow these steps to apply for financial assistance at a hospital:
- 1
Request a financial assistance application
Contact the hospital's billing department and ask for a financial assistance application. Non-profit hospitals are legally required to provide this information.
- 2
Gather required documents
You'll typically need proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), photo ID, proof of residence, and insurance information or proof of uninsured status.
- 3
Submit before the deadline
Most hospitals allow up to 240 days from the first billing statement to apply for financial assistance. Submit your application as early as possible.
- 4
Follow up on your application
Call the billing department regularly to check on your application status. Keep copies of everything you submit.
- 5
Appeal if denied
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Ask for the specific reasons for denial in writing and provide additional documentation if needed.
Need more help? See our complete guide to medical bill advocates and free resources.
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Upload Your BillRelated Resources
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Charity Care Guides for Other States
Utah
Utah hospitals must provide community benefit including charity care. Check eligibility at Intermountain Health and University of Utah Health — income limits and how to apply.
Vermont
Vermont's Act 119 requires free care under 250% FPL and discounts under 400% FPL. Check eligibility at UVM Medical Center and Rutland Regional — how to apply.
Virginia
Virginia law requires free care under 200% FPL for hospital licensing. Check charity care eligibility at Inova, VCU Medical Center, and UVA Health — how to apply.
Washington
Washington's Charity Care Act requires free care under 300% FPL. Check eligibility at UW Medicine, Virginia Mason, and Swedish Medical Center — how to apply.