Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Washington (2026)
To qualify for Apple Health in 2026 you must be a Washington resident, a U.S. citizen or qualifying immigrant, and fit into a covered group with income under that group's limit. Because Washington expanded Medicaid, most adults under 65 qualify on income alone.
Who is covered
Adults 19–64
138% of FPL- Single
- $1,835/mo
- Family of 3
- $3,142/mo
ACA expansion adults; no asset test
Parents & caretakers
138% of FPL- Single
- $1,835/mo
- Family of 3
- $3,142/mo
Parents covered under expansion group
Children (Medicaid/CHIP)
317% of FPL- Single
- $4,216/mo
- Family of 3
- $7,217/mo
Upper limit incl. CHIP; younger age bands may differ. KFF 2025 survey - confirm with state
Pregnant women
198% of FPL- Single
- $2,633/mo
- Family of 3
- $4,508/mo
Includes CHIP pregnancy/unborn-child coverage where offered. KFF 2025 survey - confirm with state
Seniors, blind & disabled
100% of FPL- Single
- $1,330/mo
- Family of 3
- $2,277/mo
SSI-related; most states use SSI limit (~74% FPL) or 100% FPL. CA, AZ and a few others have no asset test
Requirements checklist
- Residency. You live in Washington and intend to stay. No minimum length of residence.
- Citizenship or immigration status. U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (usually after 5 years), refugees, asylees and certain other categories. Emergency Medicaid is available regardless of status.
- Income. Under the limit for your group; see Washington income limits.
- Assets (seniors and disabled only). Under $2,000 for an individual; see asset limits.
- Social Security number for each applicant (not required for non-applicant household members).
Groups with special rules
- Former foster youth are covered to age 26 regardless of income.
- Women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through a screening program.
- People receiving SSI are automatically eligible in most states.
- Medically needy. If offered, lets people with high medical bills qualify after a spend-down.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Medicaid in Washington if I work?
Do I qualify for Washington Medicaid if I have no income?
Can non-citizens get Washington Medicaid?
How do I check if I qualify?
Sources
- HHS Poverty Guidelines 2026 (ASPE)
- Washington State Health Care Authority
- Medicaid.gov eligibility levels by state
Limits are calculated from the federal poverty guidelines using the percentage Washington applies to each group, and rounded to the nearest dollar. Your state agency makes the final determination.