If you live in Washington state and need affordable health coverage, you may qualify for Apple Health, which is Washington's Medicaid program. Apple Health provides free or low-cost medical, dental, and vision coverage to eligible residents. Unlike marketplace insurance, you can apply for Apple Health at any time during the year with no enrollment deadlines to worry about. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about eligibility, income limits, and the application process.
Not sure if you qualify? Check your eligibility in minutes with our free screening tool to see what benefits you may be eligible for.
What Is Apple Health (Washington Medicaid)?
Apple Health is the name Washington uses for its Medicaid program. It is administered by the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) and provides comprehensive health coverage including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, dental care, vision services, mental health treatment, and more.
Washington expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in 2014, which means more adults qualify for coverage compared to states that have not expanded. The program covers low-income adults, children, pregnant individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Key facts about Apple Health:
- Cost: Free for most enrollees (some children's programs have small monthly premiums)
- Enrollment: Open year-round, no special enrollment period needed
- Processing time: Up to 45 days for most applications
- Coverage includes: Medical, dental, vision, mental health, prescriptions, and more
Apple Health Income Limits for 2026
Your eligibility for Apple Health depends primarily on your household size and monthly income. Washington uses the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine income thresholds. Below are the income limits by category.
Adults Ages 19 to 64
Adults without dependents qualify with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800 | $21,600 |
| 2 | $2,437 | $29,244 |
| 3 | $3,074 | $36,888 |
| 4 | $3,711 | $44,532 |
Children (Ages 0 to 18)
Children qualify at higher income levels than adults, up to 215% of the FPL for free coverage.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (Free) | With Premium (Up to 317% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,804 | $5,601 |
| 3 | $4,792 | $7,056 |
| 4 | $5,780 | $8,511 |
Apple Health for Kids has premium tiers for families with higher incomes:
- Free coverage: Household income below 215% FPL
- Tier 1 ($20 per child per month): Household income up to 265% FPL
- Tier 2 ($30 per child per month): Household income up to 317% FPL
Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant individuals qualify with income up to 210% of the FPL. Coverage includes prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum coverage through the After-Pregnancy Coverage (APC) program.
Aged, Blind, or Disabled
Individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or have a disability may qualify with income up to 74% of the FPL (approximately $967 per month for an individual).
How to Apply for Medicaid in Washington: Step by Step
There are several ways to apply for Apple Health in Washington. Choose the method that works best for you.
Option 1: Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest way to apply is through Washington Healthplanfinder, the state's official health insurance marketplace.
- Go to wahealthplanfinder.org and click "Create an account" or "Apply now."
- Create your account with your name, email address, and a secure password.
- Complete the application. You will answer questions about your household size, income, citizenship or immigration status, and other details.
- Submit your application. The system will determine if you qualify for Apple Health or other coverage options.
- Check your results. If you qualify for Apple Health, you will be enrolled automatically. You may need to choose a managed care plan.
- Upload any requested documents to verify your information.
Option 2: Apply Through Washington Connection
You can also apply at washingtonconnection.org, which is the state's portal for multiple benefit programs. This option is especially useful if you want to apply for Apple Health along with other programs like Basic Food (SNAP) or cash assistance at the same time.
Option 3: Apply by Phone
Call the Apple Health customer service line at 1-800-562-3022 (TTY/TRS: 711). Representatives can help you complete your application over the phone. For Washington Healthplanfinder support, call 1-855-923-4633.
Option 4: Apply in Person
Visit your local DSHS Community Service Office (CSO) to apply with the help of staff. You can find your nearest office at dshs.wa.gov. In-person navigators and community health workers are also available at many hospitals, clinics, and community organizations throughout Washington.
Option 5: Apply by Mail or Fax
Download a paper application from the Health Care Authority website or request one by calling 1-800-562-3022. Complete the form and mail or fax it to the address provided on the application.
Documents You Will Need
When applying for Apple Health, gather these documents beforehand to speed up the process:
- Proof of identity: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, or a letter from your employer
- Proof of Washington residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or mail with your current address
- Citizenship or immigration status documentation: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents
- Information about current insurance (if applicable)
You do not need to have all documents ready when you submit your application. The state may request verification after you apply, and you will have time to provide it.
What Happens After You Apply
After submitting your Apple Health application, here is what to expect:
- Application review: The Health Care Authority or DSHS will review your application. This typically takes up to 45 days, though many applications are processed much faster.
- Verification requests: You may receive a letter or notice asking for additional documentation. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
- Eligibility determination: You will receive a notice telling you whether you have been approved or denied.
- Choose a managed care plan: If approved, you will need to select a managed care organization (MCO) to coordinate your care. Options vary by county and may include Molina Healthcare, Coordinated Care, Community Health Plan of Washington, Amerigroup, or UnitedHealthcare Community Plan.
- Receive your ProviderOne services card: This card serves as your proof of coverage. You can use it at any provider that accepts Apple Health.
Special Apple Health Programs
Washington offers several specialized Apple Health programs beyond standard Medicaid:
- Apple Health Expansion: Covers adults 19 and older who do not qualify for other Apple Health programs due to immigration status. Income limit is 138% FPL.
- Apple Health for Workers with Disabilities (HWD): Allows people with disabilities who are working to keep their Apple Health coverage at higher income levels.
- Apple Health Medicare Connect: Coordinates benefits for people who have both Medicare and Apple Health.
- After-Pregnancy Coverage (APC): Provides 12 months of postpartum coverage for individuals who were covered during pregnancy, with income up to 210% FPL.
- Family Planning Only (FPO): Covers family planning services for individuals who do not qualify for full Apple Health.
- Medically Intensive Children's Program (MICP): Provides additional support for children with complex medical needs.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply online for the fastest results. Online applications through Washington Healthplanfinder are processed more quickly than paper applications.
- Report all household income accurately. Include wages, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, unemployment, child support, and any other income sources.
- Apply for multiple programs at once. Use Washington Connection to check eligibility for Apple Health, Basic Food, child care assistance, and cash assistance in a single application.
- Keep your contact information current. Make sure your mailing address, phone number, and email are up to date so you receive important notices.
- Respond to verification requests quickly. If the state asks for documents, submit them as soon as possible to prevent delays or denial.
- Renew on time. Apple Health coverage must be renewed periodically. Watch for renewal notices and respond before the deadline.
Apple Health Coverage Details
Once enrolled, Apple Health covers a wide range of services at no cost to most enrollees:
- Primary care and specialist visits
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient care
- Emergency room visits
- Prescription medications
- Dental care (preventive and restorative)
- Vision exams and glasses
- Mental health and substance use disorder treatment
- Maternity and newborn care
- Lab tests and imaging
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Nonemergency medical transportation
- Preventive services and immunizations
Getting Help With Your Application
If you need assistance applying for Apple Health, free help is available:
- Washington Healthplanfinder customer support: 1-855-923-4633
- Apple Health (Medicaid) customer service: 1-800-562-3022
- DSHS general hotline: 1-877-501-2233
- In-person navigators: Available at community health centers, hospitals, and social service agencies throughout Washington
- Language assistance: Help is available in over 200 languages
For a complete overview of all available benefits in the state, visit our Washington Benefits Overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Apple Health at any time?
Yes. Unlike marketplace health insurance, Apple Health does not have an open enrollment period. You can apply at any time during the year and receive coverage as soon as you are approved.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are processed within a few days to a few weeks. By law, the state has up to 45 days to make an eligibility determination. If you need immediate care, you may receive temporary coverage while your application is being processed.
Does Apple Health cover dental and vision?
Yes. Apple Health provides comprehensive dental coverage including preventive care, fillings, extractions, and other services. Vision coverage includes eye exams and glasses.
What if my income changes after I am enrolled?
You are required to report income changes to the Health Care Authority. If your income increases above the limit, you may transition to a marketplace plan with subsidies through Washington Healthplanfinder. If your income decreases, you may qualify for additional benefits.
Can noncitizens apply for Apple Health?
Yes. Many lawfully present immigrants qualify for Apple Health. Washington also offers the Apple Health Expansion program for adults who do not qualify for standard Medicaid due to immigration status. The income limit for this program is 138% FPL. Receiving Apple Health does not count against you for public charge purposes.
Is there an asset or resource limit?
For most Apple Health programs serving adults and children, there is no asset or resource limit. Eligibility is based on income. However, some programs for aged, blind, or disabled individuals may have resource limits.
Can I apply for Apple Health and other benefits at the same time?
Yes. Through Washington Connection, you can apply for Apple Health, Basic Food (SNAP), TANF cash assistance, and child care subsidies all in one application.
What if I am denied?
If your application is denied, you have the right to request a fair hearing to appeal the decision. The denial notice will include instructions on how to file an appeal. You can also contact the Health Care Authority at 1-800-562-3022 for more information.
Applying for Apple Health in Washington is straightforward, and help is available every step of the way. Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, the process is designed to connect eligible residents with the health coverage they need. Use our free screening tool to check your eligibility for Apple Health and other assistance programs in just a few minutes.
