Is there a waiting list for Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) in Texas?

Yes. Texas HCS has a waiting list, usually called an interest list, and wait times can be very long. The Arc of Texas says that more than 170,000 Texans are on interest lists across Medicaid waiver programs, and families are generally encouraged to get on the list as early as possible because HCS is one of the state’s main long-term support pathways for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How long is the Texas HCS waiting list?

Wait times vary by program and individual circumstances, but they often span many years. The Arc of Texas notes that Texas waiver programs have extensive interest lists statewide, and placement on the list does not guarantee when services will begin. Families can review this in The Arc of Texas guide to Medicaid waivers and Alpaca’s guide to Texas Medicaid waivers.

Who manages the HCS interest list?

Texas Health and Human Services maintains HCS interest lists, and local LIDDAs are the main entry point for screening, referrals, and communication. In general, people are served based on how long they have been on the list, though urgent situations may sometimes be reviewed separately.

How do families get on the waiting list?

Families usually start by contacting their local LIDDA and requesting an eligibility screening. After the state confirms a qualifying diagnosis and support needs, the individual can be added to the HCS interest list.

It is also important to keep contact information current and respond to renewal or follow-up notices so a family does not lose its place on the list.

What can families do while waiting?

Depending on eligibility, a child may still qualify for:

• Medicaid-covered services, including ABA therapy
• School-based supports
• Other waiver pathways
• Community-based supports and grants

Families planning next steps can review Texas Medicaid coverage for ABA therapy, autism resources in Texas, Texas autism grants and financial resources, and Texas Medicaid waivers.

More Texas autism resources

• Autism insurance coverage in Texas
• ABA therapy costs in Texas
• Texas autism grants and funding options
• Texas Medicaid Buy-In
• Texas Medicaid waivers

Even while waiting for HCS, you can begin exploring meaningful support. Start an ABA intake with Alpaca Health.