Who Qualifies for In-Home Care Coverage in Austin, TX?

Navigating the world of home care benefits can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the best decisions for someone you love. At ComForCare Home Care of Austin, we believe every senior deserves to age with dignity and independence — and understanding what financial support is available is a meaningful first step. Whether you’re exploring options for a parent, spouse, or yourself, our team is here to help you find a path forward that feels manageable and empowering.

Our Austin team provides a full range of services tailored to each individual’s unique needs. From personalized in-home care that supports daily living to specialized dementia care through our evidence-based DementiaWise® program, we meet seniors where they are — at home, where they’re most comfortable.

Understanding Coverage Eligibility for Home Care in Austin

One of the most common questions families ask us is simply: who qualifies for home care in Austin? The answer depends on several factors, including age, health status, income, assets, and the specific program you’re applying through. Texas offers meaningful coverage options through Medicaid and Veterans Affairs benefits, and knowing the details of each can help you act quickly and confidently.

Texas Medicaid Home Care Eligibility: What Austin Residents Need to Know

Medicaid home care eligibility in Texas is administered through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). The primary program that covers in-home and community-based services for seniors and people with disabilities is the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver. This waiver is designed to help eligible individuals receive care at home instead of in a nursing facility — a goal that aligns closely with our mission at ComForCare.

To qualify for Medicaid home care in Texas, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:

• Age and Disability: Applicants must be 65 or older, or adults aged 21 and older with a qualifying physical disability.
• Income Limits: The monthly income limit for STAR+PLUS HCBS waiver recipients is generally $2,829 per individual (300% of the federal SSI benefit rate). Income above this threshold may still be managed through a Qualified Income Trust (also called a Miller Trust).
• Asset Limits: Countable assets must not exceed $2,000 for an individual. Certain assets — such as a primary residence, one vehicle, and personal belongings — are typically exempt from this calculation.
• Level of Care: Applicants must require a nursing-facility level of care, as assessed by HHSC.

Applications are processed through your local Texas HHSC office. In the Austin area, families can apply online at hhs.texas.gov or by calling 2-1-1 to connect with local assistance. Waitlists can be lengthy, so we encourage families to begin the process as early as possible.

It’s worth noting that Medicaid home care eligibility in Texas is set at the state level, which means the rules above apply specifically to Austin and all of Texas — not just a general national standard. This makes local knowledge especially valuable when you’re trying to find home care in Austin for a loved one.

VA Benefits for Austin-Area Veterans

For veterans living in Austin, federal VA benefits offer another avenue for accessing in-home care. The VA Aid and Attendance benefit, as well as the Homemaker and Home Health Aide program, can help eligible veterans and surviving spouses cover the cost of personal care services at home. Because VA benefits are administered federally, eligibility criteria are consistent nationwide — but how you access and use them locally does vary. Our Austin team is experienced in working alongside VA-approved care plans and can help coordinate services seamlessly. For a deeper overview of VA benefit eligibility, visit our ComForCare Austin main office page to connect with our team directly.

Serving Austin and the Surrounding Communities

ComForCare Home Care of Austin proudly serves seniors and families throughout the greater Austin area, including Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, and beyond. Our caregivers are trained, compassionate professionals who are committed to making every client feel safe, respected, and supported at home.

If you’re still exploring whether you or a loved one qualifies for coverage or want to understand more about the benefits landscape in Central Texas, we invite you to read our in-depth local resource. Our Benefits & Eligibility blog for Austin, TX walks through the latest program details, application tips, and local resources to help your family take the next step with confidence.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our team is here — ready to listen, answer questions, and help build a care plan that honors your loved one’s independence and dignity, right here in Austin.