How to Pay for Assisted Living in Texas

Paying for assisted living is one of the biggest stress points for families starting this search — and in Texas, there's no single program that covers it for everyone. Here's a general overview of the most common ways families cover costs. This is general information, not financial or legal advice; a certified financial planner or elder law attorney can help with your specific situation.

Private Pay

Most assisted living residents in Texas pay privately, using retirement savings, pensions, Social Security income, or proceeds from selling a home. This is the most common path simply because Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care.

Long-Term Care Insurance

If your loved one purchased a long-term care insurance policy years ago, it may cover some or all assisted living costs. Review the policy's daily benefit amount, elimination period, and what triggers coverage (usually needing help with a certain number of "activities of daily living").

Veterans Benefits

Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for the VA's Aid and Attendance benefit, which provides additional monthly income that can be put toward assisted living costs. Eligibility depends on service history, income, and care needs.

Medicaid (STAR+PLUS)

Texas Medicaid does not typically pay for room and board in assisted living, but the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services waiver can help cover some personal care services for eligible low-income seniors in certain assisted living settings. Availability and waitlists vary.

Bridge Loans and Home Equity

Some families use a short-term bridge loan or home equity line while a house is being sold, to cover the gap between moving in and finalizing other funding sources.

Frequently Asked Questions