Help Your Parent Apply for QMB in Texas — Authorized Representative Guide

HHSC Won't Talk to You Without Paperwork

Texas Health and Human Services Commission doesn't grant case access or accept signatures from family members without formal documentation. If you call 2-1-1 to ask about your mother's application status, the caseworker will confirm they can see the case — and then decline to share any details until representation is established.

Two documents give you authority to act:

• Form H1003 (Appointment of an Authorized Representative to Allow Another Person to Act for You): your parent signs this form designating you as their representative for HHSC benefits. It covers complete case management, notice receipt, document submission, and appeal representation. This is the most common route for adult children.
• Legal Power of Attorney: a broader legal instrument, typically covering medical and financial decisions. HHSC accepts a valid POA in lieu of Form H1003.

Either Form H1003 or valid legal authority such as a power of attorney must be verified with HHSC before you can act as your parent's authorized representative.

The Application Process as Representative

Once Form H1003 is submitted and linked to your parent's case, you can:

• Create or manage a YourTexasBenefits.com account on your parent's behalf
• Submit Form H1200-EZ with your signature in the representative field
• Upload verification documents through the portal or mobile app
• Receive and respond to HHSC notices, including Form H1020 (Request for Information) with its 10-day deadline
• Request a Fair Hearing if the application is denied

If your parent can sign their own application but wants you to handle everything else, submit Form H1003 with the application so HHSC can verify you as the authorized representative.

Managing from Out of State

Adult children living in other states face specific hurdles. An out-of-state driver's license can make online identity verification difficult. If that happens, fall back to the paper route — mail Form H1200-EZ and Form H1003 to PO Box 149024, Austin, TX 78714-9024, or fax to 1-877-447-2839.

Document gathering often requires coordination. Your parent may need to pull bank statements, locate their Medicare card, and sign Form H1003 — tasks that can be difficult if they have limited mobility or cognitive challenges. Ship a pre-organized folder with the forms marked where to sign, a checklist of documents to include, and a return envelope.

Keep copies of the completed H1003 and signed H1200-EZ. If HHSC sends a Form H1020 requesting additional documentation, the 10-day deadline starts from the notice date, not from when the mail reaches you in another state. Build in transit time.

Beyond HHSC: SSA and Medicare Representation

If your parent also needs a conditional Part A filing at Social Security (for seniors lacking 40 work quarters), you'll need separate representation documentation for SSA — Form SSA-1696 (Claimant's Appointment of a Representative). HHSC's H1003 doesn't carry over to federal agencies.

For Medicare claims questions or balance billing complaints, CMS form CMS-10106 (Authorization to Disclose Information) authorizes you to access claims history and file complaints on your parent's behalf.

Our Texas Medicare Savings Programs & Extra Help Guide includes all the representative forms referenced here, a document preparation checklist for out-of-state caregivers, and a step-by-step walkthrough of the remote application process.

See more Texas guides →