TX HHS Form H0050. Parent Profile Questionnaire

Texas Form H0050, the Parent Profile Questionnaire, is used by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to gather accurate information about an absent parent when a family applies for certain state benefits. The form helps the agency determine child support cooperation requirements and verify eligibility for assistance programs. Although the document looks simple at first glance, it carries real legal significance—incorrect or incomplete information can affect benefit eligibility or trigger repayment obligations.

Purpose of the Form

The primary purpose of Form H0050 is to document key information about an absent parent so HHSC can determine:

• whether child support enforcement applies,
• whether the applicant is required to cooperate with the Office of the Attorney General,
• what level of financial responsibility the absent parent may have toward the child,
• whether additional documents or verification are needed.

The form is usually completed by the head of household when one or both biological parents are not living with the child.

Section-by-Section Explanation

I. Information About the Head of Household

This section identifies the person applying for benefits on behalf of the child. HHSC uses this information to match the case number, verify identity, and connect the application to the correct household. Typical mistakes include entering an incorrect Social Security number or forgetting to update address or phone information, which can delay case processing.

II. Information About the Absent Parent

This is one of the most important parts of the form. HHSC evaluates income, location, and identity of the absent parent to determine potential child support obligations. Applicants should provide as much accurate information as possible, including employer contact details if known. If information is unavailable, it should not be guessed—only verified facts should be listed.

III. Information About the Child(ren)

Each child related to the absent parent must be listed separately, with name, Social Security number, and date of birth. Missing or inconsistent details here are among the most common reasons HHSC requests additional verification.

IV. Is the Absent Parent Deceased?

If the absent parent is deceased, cooperation with child support enforcement is not required. Supporting documents, such as a death certificate, may be requested.

V. Marital History of the Parents

This section clarifies whether the parents were ever married. Marital status may affect legal paternity, child support requirements, and the need for additional documentation.

VI. Court-Ordered Child Support

If child support has already been ordered, the applicant must state which state issued the order and the county of the court. A copy of the order may be required. Failure to disclose an existing order can delay benefits or trigger a compliance review later.

VII. Statement if the Father Is Unknown

This sworn statement carries legal weight. By signing, the applicant affirms under penalty of perjury that they do not know the identity of the absent parent. Texas Penal Code 37.10 outlines penalties for providing false information in government documents. Signing this section incorrectly or dishonestly can result in prosecution or repayment of benefits.

Practical Recommendations

• Provide only accurate, verifiable information—never estimate employer details or identity data.
• Double-check Social Security numbers and dates of birth before submitting.
• If unsure of certain details, leave the field blank rather than guessing.
• Sign only the sections that apply to your situation.
• Keep copies of any court orders, custody documents, or death certificates that relate to the absent parent.

Common Real-Life Scenarios

• A parent left the household recently: The applicant uses Form H0050 to report the other parent’s last known address and employer so child support cooperation can be established.
• The father has never been involved: If the mother truly does not know the identity of the father, she signs Section VII affirming this under penalty of perjury.
• There is already a child support order in another state: The applicant lists the issuing state and county so HHSC can verify the existing order.
• The absent parent is deceased: The applicant marks “Yes” in Section IV; HHSC may request verification but will not require cooperation with child support enforcement.

Documents You May Need to Provide

• Child support order (if applicable)
• Proof of paternity (acknowledgment or court order)
• Death certificate of the absent parent
• Any documentation showing the absent parent’s last known employer or address

FAQ

• Do I have to complete the form if I don’t know anything about the absent parent? Yes, but complete only what you genuinely know. If the father's identity is unknown, Section VII must be signed.
• Does completing this form enroll me in child support? Not automatically. HHSC may refer your case to the Attorney General if required by program rules.
• What if the absent parent refuses to provide information? HHSC does not require cooperation from the absent parent—only from the applicant.
• Will benefits be denied if I make a mistake? Generally no, but incorrect information can delay processing or require later correction.
• Do I need to attach documents when submitting the form? Only if HHSC specifically requests them (e.g., court orders or proof of death).
• Who reviews this form? HHSC eligibility staff use it to determine cooperation requirements for benefits involving children.

Micro-FAQ

• Purpose: To collect information about an absent parent for benefit eligibility.
• Who files: The head of household applying for HHSC benefits.
• Is it mandatory: Yes, if a child has an absent parent.
• Attachments: Only if requested (e.g., court orders or death verification).
• Submitted to: Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
• Penalty for false info: Possible prosecution under Texas Penal Code 37.10.
• Deadline: Submit with benefit application or upon HHSC request.
• If father unknown: Applicant must sign a sworn statement in Section VII.

Related Forms

• Texas Form H1028 – Employment Verification
• Texas Form H0053 – Child Support Information
• Texas OAG Paternity Acknowledgment Forms
• Other HHSC household information forms

Form Details

• Form Name: Parent Profile Questionnaire
• Form Number: H0050
• Region: Texas
• Agency: Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)
• Edition Date: March 2025