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Apple Health (Medicaid) 

Apple Health is Washington State’s Medicaid program that offers free or low-cost insurance coverage for those who qualify. Enrollment in Apple Health is open year-round, allowing applicants to apply for coverage at any time. However, Apple Health members must renew their coverage every 6 months. 

Apple Health (Medicaid) Changes are Coming!

Federal changes are coming to Apple Health, Washington state’s Medicaid program. These changes will roll out over the next few years, and the state is still developing many details.

    What is Changing?

    Beginning January 1, 2027, Washington Apple Health for Adults (ages 19–64) will require six-month renewals (previously one year), add work/training requirements of 80 hours per month, and reduce retroactive coverage to one month (previously 3 months).

    Changes include:

    1. Six-month renewals: People enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will be required to renew their coverage every six months instead of twelve months.
    2. Work requirements: To remain eligible, people enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will be required to work, train, or do community engagement 80 hours per month (with some exceptions). These requirements do not apply to any other Apple Health program, including children, pregnancy services, or long-term care services. Read here to learn more about these new requirements, including exemptions.
    3. Retroactive limits: Retroactive coverage will be shortened from three months to one month for Apple Health for Adults and shortened to two months for all other Apple Health programs.

    What Should I Do to Prepare?

    Because of upcoming changes, make sure you:

    • Read all messages from Washington Healthplanfinder and your insurance company.
    • Keep your account information up to date. Learn how to update your income or address at hca.wa.gov/report-a-change.
    • Keep track of important dates.
    • Find local help to answer your questions.

    What Should I Do if I’m No Longer Eligible?

    If you are not eligible for Apple Health (Medicaid), other health coverage options are available. During open enrollment (November 1 – January 15), anyone can apply for health insurance through Washington Healthplanfinder.

    You may apply for a qualified health plan (QHP) and qualified dental plans during a special enrollment period outside of open enrollment. Life events can include job loss, birth, adoption, marriage, and more. To apply during special enrollment, visit Washington Healthplanfinder or call Washington Healthplanfinder Customer Support Center at 1-855-923-4633.

    If you do not have insurance, CHC may be able to reduce your costs through our Sliding Fee Discount Program. All patients are encouraged to complete an application. Eligibility is based on a person’s income and the number of people in their household.

      Where can I Find More Information?

      For the most current Apple Health information, please visit Washington State Health Care Authority’s Apple Health changes webpage: hca.wa.gov/hr1-changes

      For Washington Healthplanfinder: wahealthplanfinder.org

        Important Resources

        Noncitizen changes coming to Apple Health eligibility (available in 15 languages)

        Work requirements and renewal changes coming to Apple Health for Adults (available in 15 languages)

        Work requirements and renewal changes coming to Apple Health for Adults (available in 15 languages)

        Changes coming to retroactive coverage (available in 15 languages)