Medicare in Texas 2026
Learn how Medicare works in Texas, including Medicare Supplement options, Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug coverage, and what to know before enrolling or changing plans.
State
Texas
Medicaid Program
Texas Medicaid
Best Used For
Retirees, snowbirds, and beneficiaries who want to compare a wide variety of Medicare plan options.
Quick Facts
| State | Texas |
| Plan Year | 2026 |
| Medicaid Program | Texas Medicaid |
| Birthday Rule | No |
| Medigap | Texas follows the standard federal Medigap rules and does not have a Medigap Birthday Rule. Outside of your initial enrollment period or a guaranteed issue event, changing Medicare Supplement plans may require medical underwriting. |
| Part D | Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout Texas for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, so reviewing your prescription drug coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period is recommended. |
| SHIP Program | Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) |
| Last Reviewed | 2026-06-08 |
Why Texas Is Different
Texas Medicare beneficiaries can choose between Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement plan or a Medicare Advantage plan. Texas has one of the nation's largest Medicare markets, with plan availability, provider networks, and benefits varying significantly by county. Whether you live in a major metropolitan area or a rural community, reviewing your Medicare coverage each year can help ensure your plan continues to meet your healthcare needs and budget.
Most Common Mistake
Assuming Medicare Advantage plans offer the same doctors, hospitals, and benefits across Texas without comparing plans available in their county.
Medigap Rules
Texas follows the standard federal Medigap rules and does not have a Medigap Birthday Rule. Outside of your initial enrollment period or a guaranteed issue event, changing Medicare Supplement plans may require medical underwriting.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are widely available throughout Texas, with the greatest selection generally found in the Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi metropolitan areas. Plan availability, provider networks, premiums, and supplemental benefits vary by county, making annual plan comparisons especially important.
Part D Prescription Coverage
Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout Texas for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, so reviewing your prescription drug coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period is recommended.
Provider Network Notes
Provider networks vary considerably across Texas. Metropolitan areas typically offer more participating physicians, specialists, and hospitals than rural communities. Always verify that your preferred providers participate before enrolling.
Texas Health Resources; Baylor Scott & White Health; Houston Methodist; Memorial Hermann; UT Southwestern Medical Center; Ascension Seton
Moving To or From Texas
Moving within Texas or relocating from another state may change your Medicare Advantage and Part D plan options. Review your coverage whenever you move to ensure your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions remain covered.
Snowbird Considerations
Texas is home to many seasonal residents and retirees. If you regularly travel or live part of the year in another state, Original Medicare paired with a Medicare Supplement generally offers greater nationwide flexibility than most Medicare Advantage plans.
Long-Term Care
Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care. Eligible Texas residents may qualify for long-term care assistance through Texas Medicaid waiver programs.
Retirement Tax Notes
Texas has no state income tax, making it a popular retirement destination. Social Security benefits, pensions, IRAs, and other retirement income are not subject to state income tax.
State Assistance Program
Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
Visit SHIP WebsiteSources & Review Date
CMS.gov; Medicare.gov; Texas Health and Human Services; Texas HICAP; Texas Medicaid
Plan year: 2026
Last content review: 2026-06-08
Last data review: 2026-06-08