How to Apply for Washington Medicaid
Updated August 2026
Most individuals and families apply for Apple Health through Washington Healthplanfinder at wahealthplanfinder.org. One application evaluates all household members for Apple Health and, for those who don't qualify, shows subsidized private insurance options through the exchange.
Income just above the Apple Health limit? You may qualify for subsidized private plans
If your income is above 138% FPL, you won't qualify for Apple Health, but Washington Healthplanfinder shows you all available subsidized private plans through the state exchange in the same application. You do not need to restart the process. Premiums for qualified plans are often $0 or very low for incomes between 138% and 300% FPL with available federal tax credits.
How to apply for Apple Health in Washington
Washington's Health Care Authority (HCA) and Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) jointly administer Apple Health applications. The right portal depends on your situation. Per HCA guidance at hca.wa.gov, here are the main ways to apply:
- Online — Washington Healthplanfinder: Apply at wahealthplanfinder.org 24/7. Best for individuals, families, and mixed-household situations. The same portal shows private insurance options if you earn too much for Apple Health.
- By phone — Washington Healthplanfinder: Call 1-855-923-4633 (TTY: 711) to apply by phone with a Washington Healthplanfinder representative. Available Monday–Friday. Interpreters available in multiple languages.
- In person — DSHS Community Services Office: Visit a DSHS Community Services Office (CSO) for in-person assistance, especially if you also need other state benefits. Find your nearest CSO at dshs.wa.gov/office-locations.
- Through a Navigator or Assister: Certified Application Counselors (CACs) and Navigators can assist at no charge. Many community health centers, libraries, and social service organizations offer this help. Find a local assister through Washington Healthplanfinder's website.
What you need to apply for Apple Health
Washington verifies identity, residency, income, and immigration status. Gather these items before starting your application online.
- Full legal name and date of birth for all household members applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants who have them
- Proof of Washington State residency — utility bill, lease, or official mail with current address
- Income information for the past 30 days — pay stubs, employer letter, or tax documents if self-employed
- Immigration documents if applicable — green card, visa, I-94, or Employment Authorization Document
- Current health insurance information if anyone in the household has existing coverage
- Any disability or Social Security award letters if applying based on disability status
Washington Healthplanfinder can verify some information electronically through state databases. You may not need to provide all documents if HCA can confirm information from existing records.
How long does Apple Health take to process?
Under 42 CFR 435.912, Washington must process most Apple Health applications within 45 days. Disability-based applications may take up to 90 days. If you apply online and provide all required information, many straightforward applications receive a near-real-time eligibility decision.
Coverage begins on the first day of the month you applied, assuming approval. Pregnant women may qualify for retroactive Apple Health coverage going back three months.
Keep your Washington Healthplanfinder account contact information current. If additional documentation is needed, a notice will be sent to the email address on file.
Apple Health (Washington Medicaid)
Visit the official Washington Medicaid websiteRelated guides
How to Apply
A step-by-step walkthrough of the application process and what you'll need.
Read more →Eligibility Requirements
The income, household, age, and state rules that determine who qualifies.
Read more →Approval Time
Federal processing deadlines and what affects your approval timeline.
Read more →