DSHS Benefits

Observed Holidays — The full list of holidays observed by DSHS can be found on the Texas State Auditor’s website. 

Vacation Leave — Accrued at 8 hours monthly starting on the first day of employment (available after six-month probationary period). 

Sick Leave — Accrued at 8 hours monthly and can be used immediately. 

Emergency Leave — Leave may be granted for eligible causes. 

Leave for Outstanding Performance — Employees may be awarded up to 32 hours per year based on performance.

Other available leave types include:

• Overtime and Compensatory Time
• Educational Leave
• Military Leave
• Unpaid Leave (FMLA, parental leave, etc.)
• Paid Parental Leave (for employees eligible for FMLA)
• Wellness Leave

Health Insurance — Coverage begins the first day of the month after completing the 60-day waiting period. Employees are offered two plans: a co-pay health plan or high deductible health plan.

Health Savings Accounts (HSA) — Available to employees who select the high deductible health plan. The state contributes $45 per month for individuals and $90 per month for employee plus dependents. 

Life Insurance and AD&D — The state pays for $5,000 coverage for basic term life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment. 

Optional insurance benefits include:

• Dental Insurance (no waiting period)
• Vision Insurance (no waiting period)
• Basic Term Life Insurance
• Dependent Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment

State of Texas Retirement administered by ERS — A defined benefit plan with lifetime annuities. This means when you’re eligible and choose to retire, you will get a monthly payment for the rest of your life. In addition to State/DSHS contributions, employees are required to contribute a percentage of their gross monthly salary into the plan account.  Contribution percentages and vesting are based on the date an employee joins the agency.

Texa$aver 401(k) / 457 Program administered by Empower Retirement — Supplemental retirement plan options available through a Deferred Compensation Plan. Contributions may be deducted from an employee’s monthly paycheck before (traditional) or after (Roth) income taxes are taken out.

Paid Training — Employees may be eligible, based on available funds, to receive paid training and education when related to the current or prospective duties of the employee. Payment for professional licenses or certifications may be considered.  

Professional Development — Soft skills training courses provided by the agency to enhance employee learning.  

Leadership Development Program — Employees in leadership positions may apply or be nominated for The Leadership Development Program which offers four focused leadership development courses designed to learn and refine leadership qualities and skills.

Longevity Pay — Employees receive an additional $20/month for every two years of state service.  

Merit Compensation — Salary increase or one-time payment to recognize employees for performing at an exceptional level.

Shift Differential Pay — Compensation for certain positions that may work evening shifts, night shifts, and in some cases, weekend shifts.  

Discount Purchase Program — Access to discounted products and services online with no enrollment period or membership fee.  

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) — Confidential counseling to help with problems that can impact your professional or personal life.  

Flexible Work Hours/Compressed Work Weeks — Supervisors may approve a schedule that supports an employee’s work-life balance.

Telework Program — Eligible employees may telework at a remote site. 

Wellness Benefits — Wellness resources are available to achieve your goals and live a healthy lifestyle.

Charitable Contributions — Employees can learn about charitable organizations and donate to the organization of their choice.