The Texas Application for Initial Certificate of Authority (MESA) is a document issued by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) that allows a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MESA) to operate in Texas. MESA is a type of health and welfare benefit plan that is established and maintained by multiple unrelated employers. The application is used to submit information about the MESA’s formation, purpose, and operations to the TDI. The Texas Application for Initial Certificate of Authority (MESA) has two main types: the Full Application and the Short Form Application. The Full Application requires the MESA to provide detailed information about its operations, finances, and management structure. The Short Form Application is used for Mesas that are only offering basic health and welfare benefits to employees of the employers that are part of the MESA. Once the application has been submitted, the TDI will review the information and make a determination whether the MESA can receive a Certificate of Authority. If the application is approved, the MESA will be able to operate legally in Texas and provide health and welfare benefits to its members.