Medicare + Medicaid · Texas
Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) in Texas (2026)
If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, a D-SNP can give you richer benefits at $0 premium — and you don't have to wait for fall enrollment.
What is a D-SNP?
A Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) is a type of Medicare Advantage plan for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. Because Medicaid covers much of what Medicare doesn't, these plans typically cost $0 in premium, add extras like dental, vision, transportation, and an over-the-counter allowance, and let you enroll year-round rather than only in fall. Benefits and networks vary by plan and county — we check your eligibility and compare options for free.
Updated 2026-07-03 · Source: CMS, 2026
What a D-SNP can include
- ✓$0 monthly plan premium (and often $0 medical copays)
- ✓Extra dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- ✓Over-the-counter (OTC) allowance for everyday health items
- ✓Transportation to medical appointments on many plans
- ✓Some plans add a grocery/utility/flex card for qualifying members
- ✓Care coordination that helps manage Medicare and Medicaid together
Benefits vary by plan and county. We confirm what's actually offered where you live.
Do you qualify?
You qualify if you have Medicare and Medicaid — including full Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, QI) that helps pay your Medicare costs. Many people qualify and don't know it. In Texas, Medicaid is run by HHSC. If you're not sure of your status, we'll help you find out — free and without obligation.
You can usually enroll year-round
Unlike standard Medicare Advantage, dual-eligible members generally get a Special Enrollment Period to join or change a D-SNP outside the Oct 15 – Dec 7 Annual Enrollment Period — often once per quarter for the first three quarters of the year. That means you don't have to wait to get better coverage.
Find out if you qualify — free
We'll check your Medicare + Medicaid status and compare the D-SNPs in your Texas county against your doctors and medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for a dual-eligible special needs plan (D-SNP)?
People who have BOTH Medicare and Medicaid — including full Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI). If your income and assets are limited, you may qualify even if you didn’t realize it. We can check your status for free.
Can I enroll in a D-SNP any time of year?
Generally yes. Because D-SNPs serve dual-eligible members, you usually get a Special Enrollment Period that lets you enroll or switch outside the normal Annual Enrollment Period — often once per quarter in the first three quarters of the year. We’ll confirm the window that applies to you.
How much does a D-SNP cost?
D-SNPs are Medicare Advantage plans built for dual-eligible members, so they typically have a $0 plan premium and very low or $0 cost-sharing, because Medicaid covers much of what Medicare doesn’t. You still keep your Part B premium (which Medicaid may pay for you if you qualify).
Do D-SNPs cover my doctors and drugs?
D-SNPs are network plans that include Part D drug coverage. Networks and formularies vary by plan and county, so before you enroll we check that your doctors and medications are covered — at no cost.