Washington state offers free or low-cost health coverage through Apple Health, the state's Medicaid program. If you live in Washington and have limited income, you may qualify for comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with zero premiums and zero copays. Washington is a Medicaid expansion state, which means more residents can qualify compared to states that have not expanded their programs. Whether you are an adult, a parent, pregnant, or caring for children, this guide covers everything you need to know about Washington Medicaid eligibility in 2026. You can also check your eligibility in minutes using our free screener.
Who Qualifies for Apple Health in 2026?
Apple Health covers several groups of Washington residents. Eligibility depends on your age, household size, income, and in some cases immigration status or disability. Here are the main categories:
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Children under 19 with family income at or below 215% FPL (higher limits available through CHIP)
- Pregnant individuals with income at or below 210% FPL, plus 12 months of postpartum coverage
- Seniors and people with disabilities (65+) with income at or below 74% FPL ($994/month for a single person)
- Long-term care applicants with income up to $2,982/month
Washington uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) to determine eligibility for most applicants. For adults, children, and pregnant individuals, there is no asset or resource test. Only your income matters.
2026 Apple Health Income Limits for Adults
Most adults ages 19 to 64 qualify for Apple Health if their household income falls at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. The table below shows the current monthly income limits.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800 |
| 2 | $2,433 |
| 3 | $3,065 |
| 4 | $3,697 |
| 5 | $4,330 |
| 6 | $4,962 |
| 7 | $5,595 |
| 8 | $6,228 |
| Each additional | +$632 |
These limits include the mandatory 5% income disregard. There is no savings or asset limit for this group.
2026 Income Limits for Children and Pregnant Individuals
Children and pregnant individuals qualify at higher income levels, up to 215% FPL. Unborn children count toward household size for these programs.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit (215% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,804 |
| 2 | $3,790 |
| 3 | $4,775 |
| 4 | $5,760 |
| 5 | $6,747 |
| 6 | $7,731 |
| 7 | $8,716 |
| 8 | $9,703 |
| Each additional | +$985 |
Apple Health for Kids (CHIP) Premium Tiers
If your family income is above 215% FPL but still modest, your children may still qualify through the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) with small monthly premiums:
| Tier | Income Threshold | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Up to 265% FPL | $20 per child |
| Tier 2 | Up to 317% FPL | $30 per child |
For a single-person household, Tier 2 covers income up to $4,134 per month.
Income Limits for Seniors and People with Disabilities
Seniors (65 and older) and people who are blind or disabled use different income rules based on SSI standards. These limits were updated January 1, 2026, following a 2.8% federal cost-of-living adjustment.
| Category | Single Person | Couple |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Benefit Rate / Income Standard | $994/month | $1,491/month |
| Resource Limit | $2,000 | $3,000 |
Unlike the MAGI programs for adults and children, the aged, blind, and disabled category does have a resource (asset) limit.
Long-Term Care Medicaid Limits
Washington provides long-term services and supports (LTSS) through Apple Health for residents who need nursing home care, assisted living, or home-based care.
| Standard | 2026 Amount |
|---|---|
| Special Income Level (SIL) | $2,982/month |
| Personal Needs Allowance (nursing home) | $108.74/month |
| Home Equity Limit | $1,130,000 |
| Community Spouse Resource Allowance (max) | $162,660 |
| Community Spouse Maintenance Allowance (max) | $4,066.50/month |
What Does Apple Health Cover?
Apple Health provides comprehensive coverage including:
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription medications
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Preventive care and screenings
- Lab tests and imaging
- Maternity and newborn care
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Home health services
- Transportation to medical appointments
Most Apple Health enrollees pay zero premiums and zero copays.
How to Apply for Washington Medicaid (Apple Health)
Applying for Apple Health is free. You can apply online, by phone, in person, or by mail. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before you apply, have the following ready for each household member:
- Social Security numbers
- Date of birth
- Proof of Washington residency (utility bill, lease, or ID)
- Income information (pay stubs, tax returns, or self-employment records)
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
- Information about any current health insurance
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Online (recommended): Visit Washington Healthplanfinder to create an account and apply. You can also apply through Washington Connection, which lets you apply for Apple Health along with other benefits like Basic Food (SNAP) and cash assistance in a single application.
By phone: Call 1-800-562-3022 (TTY/TRS: 711), Monday through Friday.
In person: Visit your local DSHS Community Services Office.
By mail: Download an application from the HCA website and mail it to your local office.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Answer all questions about your household, income, and personal information. The application typically takes 15 to 30 minutes online.
Step 4: Submit and Wait for a Decision
After you submit, the Health Care Authority will review your application. Processing takes up to 45 days. You will receive a notice by mail with the decision. If approved, your coverage may be effective as early as the date you applied.
Step 5: Choose a Managed Care Plan
Once approved, you will need to select a managed care health plan. If you do not choose one, you will be automatically assigned. You can change your plan within 90 days.
Special Eligibility Situations
Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant individuals qualify at the higher 210% FPL threshold. After delivery, you receive 12 months of continuous postpartum coverage through Apple Health. Unborn children count toward your household size.
Immigrants and Non-Citizens
Washington offers Apple Health coverage to many immigrants, including lawfully present individuals. The state also funds Apple Health Expansion for adults ages 19 and older who do not qualify for other Apple Health programs due to immigration status, with income at or below 138% FPL. The five-year waiting period does not apply to certain programs.
Children Under 6
Apple Health provides continuous coverage for children from birth through the end of the month they turn 6 years old, meaning their coverage will not be disrupted during that period even if family income changes.
Public Charge
Receiving Apple Health does not count against you in public charge determinations. You can apply without fear of immigration consequences.
Other Benefits You May Qualify For
If you qualify for Apple Health, you may also be eligible for other assistance programs in Washington:
- Basic Food (SNAP): Up to $298/month for groceries (single person). Income limit is 200% FPL.
- LIHEAP: Help paying heating and energy bills. Income limit is 150% FPL.
- WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant individuals and children under 5. Income limit is 185% FPL.
- Working Connections Child Care: Subsidized child care for working families. Income limit is 60% of State Median Income.
- TANF: Cash assistance for families with children.
Visit Washington Benefits Overview to learn about all available programs, or use our free screener to check your eligibility for multiple programs at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I earn and still qualify for Apple Health?
For a single adult ages 19 to 64, the income limit is $1,800 per month (138% FPL). For a family of four, the limit is $3,697 per month. Children qualify at higher income levels. Use our free eligibility screener to check your specific situation.
Is there an asset or savings limit for Apple Health?
For most applicants (adults, children, and pregnant individuals), there is no asset limit. Only your income is considered. Seniors and people with disabilities do have a resource limit of $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
How long does it take to get approved?
Applications are processed within 45 days. If you need immediate coverage due to a medical emergency, expedited processing may be available.
Can I apply for Apple Health if I am undocumented?
Washington funds Apple Health Expansion for adults who do not qualify for federal Medicaid due to immigration status. Income limits are the same as standard Apple Health (138% FPL). Children may also qualify through state-funded programs.
When do the income limits change?
MAGI income limits (for adults, children, and families) update every April 1 when the new Federal Poverty Level takes effect. Non-MAGI limits (for seniors and people with disabilities) update on January 1 based on the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment.
What is the difference between Apple Health and the ACA Marketplace?
Apple Health is free Medicaid coverage for people with lower incomes. The ACA Marketplace (Washington Healthplanfinder) offers subsidized private insurance plans for people with higher incomes who do not qualify for Apple Health. Washington also offers Cascade Care, a state public option available through the Marketplace.
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), cash assistance, and child care subsidies in a single application.
What if my income is too high for Apple Health?
If your income is above Apple Health limits, you may qualify for subsidized coverage through the Washington Healthplanfinder Marketplace. The Medically Needy program may also help if you have high medical expenses. Check your options with our screener.
Key Contact Information
| Resource | Contact |
|---|---|
| Apple Health Application | wahealthplanfinder.org |
| Apple Health Phone | 1-800-562-3022 (TTY: 711) |
| Washington Connection (multi-program) | washingtonconnection.org |
| General Benefits Hotline | 1-877-501-2233 |
| ACA Marketplace | 1-855-923-4633 |
Washington Medicaid eligibility rules can change, so it is important to verify your eligibility with the most current information. Use our free benefits screener to quickly check what programs you and your family may qualify for in 2026.
