Be Well: Your guide to upcoming changes to Apple Health (Medicaid)

Be Well Health Tips - November 6th, 2026

Reading Time: 5 Minute/s

Be Well: Your guide to upcoming changes to Apple Health (Medicaid)

Be Well Health Tips - November 6th, 2026

Reading Time: 5 Minute/s

Changes are coming to Apple Health (Medicaid) in Washington state—but they won’t affect all enrollees. Here’s a snapshot of what is changing, what is staying the same, and what you can do to be prepared.


A new federal law called H.R.1 makes some big changes to Apple Health.

Most Apple Health members will not see changes right away, and many will not be affected by the new rules. Knowing whether these changes apply to you can help you stay covered.

Who is affected by the new Apple Health rules?

Impacted: People ages 19-64 enrolled in Apple Health for Adults.

Not impacted: Seniors, pregnant individuals, children, people with disabilities, and parents or caretakers enrolled in other Apple Health plans.

Here’s a snapshot of what’s changing and what’s not:

What IS changing
Immigration rulesEffective October 1, 2026, some noncitizen adults no longer qualify for Apple Health.
Work requirements
New work rules for some adults start in 2027, unless you qualify for an exemption.
Six-month renewalsStarting in 2027, people on Apple Health for Adults must renew coverage every 6 months instead of every 12.
Retroactive coverageStarting in 2027, Apple Health will pay for fewer past medical bills from before you signed up.
What IS NOT changing
Apple Health continuesEligible members keep getting free or low-cost coverage.
Full benefitsMedical, dental, and behavioral health services stay the same.
Other plans not impactedApple Health programs for children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities will not change.
Your plan providerMost people will keep getting their Apple Health coverage through their same insurance plan, like Community Health Plan of Washington (CHPW).


Did you know
Good to know: For 2027, Apple Health for Adults enrollees can simply confirm online or by phone during renewal that they meet the work rules or qualify for an exemption. They won’t have to upload paperwork or mail in proof unless the state specifically asks for more information later.

WATCH: What to know about the new work requirements.

Did you know
Good to know: Apple Health for Adults enrollees who are renewing their coverage will only need to have met the work requirements or qualify for an exemption in one of the six months prior to their renewal.

Make sure you renew your Apple Health coverage on time

While most of the new federal changes officially take effect on January 1, 2027, when they may impact you depends on your individual Apple Health renewal date.

As your renewal time nears, watch for notices from the state and from your health plan letting you know if you need to take action, such as updating your income and household information. Be sure to respond promptly to any requests and complete your renewal on time!

3 steps to stay covered

Update

Update your contact information in Washington Healthplanfinder.

Watch

Watch for letters, emails, or text messages from the state and from your health plan about your Apple Health coverage.

Act

Respond right away if you’re asked to provide information.

Need help?

Change can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.

You can get support from:

For CHPW members:

Learn more: Visit our website to find out more about how to renew your coverage.
Call us: Speak with our local Renewal team at 1-866-907-1904 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Schedule a call with us: Fill out our Contact Us form to pick a day and time that is convenient for you.

Bottom line

Having insurance is important for your health and peace of mind. Even if your Apple Health coverage changes, you still have options. Trusted organizations and enrollment experts can help you understand your choices and find affordable coverage that works for you.

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