Healthcare Coverage for Food and Beverage Workers
Applications are now open
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Applications are now open ~
Good Work Austin wants to help you pay for health insurance
“I recently used it and all of my prescriptions were covered... for me to have insurance is life changing in the restaurant business, it's almost unheard of.”
Healthcare Access program participant
Our Healthcare Access program is expanding for 2027 to cover more workers.
Connecting You to Healthcare
We’re making real healthcare more accessible, more affordable, and much easier to navigate.
Healthcare costs keep people from getting the care they need. This program removes the biggest barrier — the monthly premium — so you can see a doctor, get prescriptions, and stay healthy without the financial stress.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify if you:
Currently employed in the food and beverage industry (e.g., restaurant, bar, café, catering business, or food truck) for at least the past 30 days.
Live in Travis, Bastrop, Hays, Caldwell, or Williamson County
If you earn between 100% - 400% federal poverty level before taxes are taken out (see chart below)
Work for an employer with fewer than 50 full-time employees
Are uninsured and not currently enrolled in MAP, MAP Basic, Medicaid, or Medicare
Are a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen
Don’t qualify?
We can connect you to other healthcare options. Email us.
How It Works
Step 1: Apply Online
Fill out our short application form to verify your eligibility. Your information is confidential and only used to determine eligibility for healthcare coverage.
There’s no cost to apply or join this program.
Step 2: Eligibility Review
Our team will review your application and confirm employment, income, and residency.
Step 3: Enroll in Coverage
If eligible, you’ll be connected to Foundation Communities for enrollment in a healthcare plan.
Step 4: Stay Covered and Supported
You’ll receive confirmation of your coverage, guidance on using your plan, and ongoing support to keep your healthcare active.
What You Get
There is no cost to apply for this program.
This program supports covering monthly healthcare premiums.
When you complete the application, you will also receive a free annual membership to Good Work Austin to take advantage of full membership benefits.
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is premium assistance and how does this program work?
A healthcare premium is the monthly cost of your health insurance.
If your household income is between 100% and 200% of the federal poverty level, your monthly premium payment will be fully covered.
If your household income is between 200% and 400% of the federal poverty level, your monthly premium will also be fully covered if you select a plan within a specific cost theshold. During the plan selection process, you will be able to choose your health insurance plan. If you choose a more expensive plan, you may have a small monthly cost for the difference.
In other words, your monthly premium can be fully covered at any income level between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, as long as you select a covered plan.
How are you calculating income to be eligible for the program?
We need your income before taxes are taken out. For a single person, this amount must be between $15,960 and $63,840 per year.
Do I need to be a Good Work Austin member to apply?
No—any eligible food or beverage service worker in Travis, Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, and Williamson County can apply. Once approved, you will receive a one-year membership to Good Work Austin.
What if I already have health insurance?
This program is only for individuals currently uninsured, but we can connect you to resources if your current coverage isn’t affordable.
Can I participate in the program if my employer offers health insurance?
Generally, no. If your employer offers comprehensive health insurance through a private insurer, you are not eligible for the program, even if you choose not to enroll in that coverage.
There is an exception: If your employer offers health insurance but the cost of the lowest-cost qualifying employee-only plan is more than 10.22% of your household income for 2027, you may still qualify, subject to program eligibility requirements and verification.
Benefits such as direct primary care memberships, which typically provide access to primary care services but do not include comprehensive health insurance, do not automatically disqualify you.
If you are unsure whether your employer’s benefits affect your eligibility, contact our team to discuss your situation.
How long does the program last?
Coverage lasts for one year (January–December 2027). Future continuation will depend on program results and available funding.
I have specific questions about my eligibility. Who can I speak with?
Reach out to erika@goodworkaustin.org for support with any questions.
Why is this program only for food and beverage service workers?
Many small food and beverage businesses don’t offer health insurance, leaving workers uninsured or underinsured. This program is designed to close that gap for this essential workforce.
I don’t work for a Good Work Austin member business—can I still apply?
Yes. You’re eligible as long as you work in the food and beverage industry and meet the eligibility requirements listed above.
I work multiple part-time food service jobs. Can I apply?
Yes. You can combine your income and hours across multiple food or hospitality employers to meet the eligibility requirements.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
You must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present non-citizen as defined by the ACA [Lawful Permanent Resident Green Card holder, Cuban/Haitian Entrant, or COFA migrant.]
What if I don’t qualify for ACA coverage because of my immigration status?
We’ll connect you with Central Health’s MAP or MAP Basic programs, which provide low-cost care for residents regardless of immigration status.
What plan will I be enrolled in?
This will depend on your application and needs.
Does this program pay for doctor visits or just the insurance premium?
The program contributes to your monthly insurance premiums. Once you’re enrolled, your plan will provide comprehensive healthcare coverage including doctor visits, prescriptions, and preventive care. The plan includes some copays and cost-sharing for certain services, but your monthly premiums are fully covered. Good Work Austin will help you understand your plan details.
When is the deadline to apply?
December 15, 2026.
How will I know if I’m accepted?
You’ll receive an email from Good Work Austin confirming your eligibility and next steps for scheduling an enrollment appointment.
Who helps me sign up for the insurance plan?
Good Work Austin will connect you with trained navigators from our partner, Foundation Communities, who will help you choose the right plan and complete your application.
When will my coverage start?
Coverage begins January 1, 2027, once your enrollment and premium assistance are confirmed. To start coverage on January 1, you must apply by December 15.
Who do I contact if I have questions after I enroll?
You’ll receive contact information for Good Work Austin’s support team and your plan representative.
Will this affect my taxes?
No. Your premium assistance is not considered taxable income.
Questions? Need Help?
You can contact us at erika@goodworkaustin.org.