Washington · Medicaid
Medicaid in Washington
Looking for Medicaid eligibility in Washington? Here is how this coverage lane works specifically for Washington residents, what it costs, and how to get it.
Facts on this page checked Jan 15, 2026. Sources are listed at the end.
How it works here
Medicaid, explained for Washington.
Washington expanded Medicaid under the ACA, so adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify regardless of whether they have children.
Medicaid in Washington provides free or very low-cost comprehensive coverage for those who qualify, and you can apply year-round — there is no enrollment window.
If you do not qualify for Medicaid in Washington, a subsidized Marketplace plan through Washington Healthplanfinder is usually the next best option.
Apple Health is Washington's Medicaid program and covers many low-income adults after expansion.
Eligible adults can enroll year-round; those over the income limit typically receive subsidy estimates through Healthplanfinder.
Rural and tribal communities should confirm local clinic participation when reviewing managed-care options.
Washington facts
- Marketplace
- Washington Healthplanfinder
- Medicaid expansion
- Adopted
- Uninsured rate
- ~6.0%
Open enrollment 2027
When Washington can enroll.
- Most exchanges open
- Nov 1, 2026
- Most exchanges close
- Jan 15, 2027
- Washington Healthplanfinder dates
- Set by the state
- Confirm before you rely on a date
Washington runs its own exchange. We do not have a state-specific date on file. Confirm with Washington Healthplanfinder before you rely on a date. Outside this window, a qualifying life event (a move, a new baby, losing other coverage) can open a Special Enrollment Period.
Medicare is different.Medicare’s annual enrollment runs Oct 15 to Dec 7, 2026. For Medicare help, visit our sister site OLYRON Medicare or Medicare.gov.
Dates checked Oct 15, 2026. Sources: HealthCare.gov: dates and deadlines; CMS statement, Jul 27, 2026.
More in this state
Other coverage in Washington.
- ACA Marketplace plansSubsidy-eligible major-medical plans sold on the exchange.
- Health sharingMember-funded medical cost sharing — not insurance.
- Short-term plansTemporary coverage to bridge a gap — limited benefits.
- MedicareOriginal Medicare, Advantage, and Medigap for 65+ and eligible.
- DentalStandalone and bundled dental coverage options.
- VisionEye exams, glasses, and contacts coverage.
- TelehealthVirtual primary and urgent care memberships.
Questions
Good questions, short answers.
Who qualifies for Medicaid in Washington?
Adults with income up to about 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, plus children, pregnant women, and others who meet income rules.
Can I apply for Medicaid any time in Washington?
Yes — unlike Marketplace plans, Medicaid enrollment is open year-round for those who qualify.
Did Washington expand Medicaid?
Yes. Washington adopted ACA Medicaid expansion, which generally opens coverage to more low-income adults.
Sources
- Medicaid.gov — federal Medicaid program information · reviewed 2026-01-15
- KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) — health policy research · reviewed 2026-01-15
- OLYRON HealthMatch editorial methodology — how we source and rate options · reviewed 2026-01-15
Before the rush
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