STAIRS Is Out. STEPS Is Coming.
Texas Medicaid cost reporting is about to change — here’s what you need to know.
Last update: 9/24/25. We will update this post when we get the next round of information.
The State of Texas Automated Information Reporting System (STAIRS) will officially be replaced by a new platform: STEPS (State of Texas Electronic Provider System) in early 2026.
This transition, announced by HHSC, will impact Medicaid cost reports and Directed Payment Program (DPP) enrollments for providers across the state. The goal of STEPS is to streamline and simplify the reporting and enrollment processes.
Transition Timeline:
- STAIRS remains in use until the official launch of STEPS in 2026.
- HHSC will provide monthly updates throughout the transition.
- The first FAQ document was published on September 2, 2025 and will be updated regularly as more questions and system details emerge.
The HHSC has requested that any questions not answered through the FAQ be submitted here. They have stated that these questions will not receive a direct response but will help guide updates to the FAQ.
Learn What We Know – Webinar with Amy
Partnering with the Texas Association for Home Care & Hospice (TAHCH), Amy Taylor and Lisa Carruth are hosting four live, limited seats, webinars to go over what we know at this time.
We’ll be guiding providers through the implementation of Texas Medicaid’s new rate structure, providing a clear overview of legislative updates, rate changes, and reporting requirements. Participants will learn how to calculate average hourly wages, assess current spending, and prepare for upcoming fiscal and compliance changes. The series is interactive, with time dedicated to answering participant questions and offering practical tools for success.
Please take the steps to understand this transition and protect your agency. You can learn more and register for one of the four webinars here.
Free for TAHCH members, $75 for non members.
For webinar questions, please reach out to Emma Marthaler at emma@tahch.org. Please do not reach out directly to Knight for additional information at this time. We’ll continue to share verified updates as they become available through our blog , podcast, The Home Care Experience, and social media.
If you have questions for HHSC, please fill out this form.
Knight Home Care Financial: Your Texas Home Health Champion
At Knight, we’re committed to keeping you ahead of policy changes that impact your agency, and to helping you navigate them with confidence.
