If you received a letter ending Apple Health this month, check the reason and ask about other coverage before giving up on finding help. Federal changes took effect Oct. 1 for some noncitizen adults in Washington, while important exceptions remain.
The rules apply across the state, including Snohomish and Island counties. They can affect members of the same household differently.
Who is affected?
The Health Care Authority says the federal change narrowed eligibility for certain Apple Health programs to particular immigration categories. Adults affected can include refugees, asylees, humanitarian parolees, trafficking survivors and Violence Against Women Act self-petitioners.
A person’s current status matters. Lawful permanent residents, Cuban/Haitian entrants and Compact of Free Association islanders remain among the federally eligible categories, subject to the other applicable requirements. If your status has changed, ask HCA to review your current circumstances.
Coverage that remains protected
The state says children, pregnant people and people within 12 months after pregnancy can still qualify for Apple Health regardless of immigration status if they meet the program’s other requirements.
There is also an important SSI exception. In an Oct. 1 announcement, HCA said a Sept. 30 preliminary court injunction preserved Apple Health for Washingtonians receiving Supplemental Security Income who otherwise would have lost coverage under the new immigration restrictions. HCA and DSHS said they were notifying affected clients. If you receive SSI and have a conflicting termination notice, contact the agencies promptly and ask them to check your case.
What to do with a notice
- Keep the letter. Check the program name, reason, coverage end date and any response or appeal instructions. Ask for help understanding a decision that appears wrong.
- Update your information. Make sure the agency has your current address, contact details, household information and immigration status.
- Ask about all available programs. Eligibility can depend on pregnancy, disability, age and medical circumstances. Emergency Medical coverage has narrower eligibility and covered-service rules than full Apple Health.
For Apple Health eligibility questions, HCA lists 1-800-562-3022. For coverage involving age 65 or older, disability or blindness, the state directs people to Washington Connection or 1-877-501-2233.
Other insurance and practical limits
Washington residents can shop for health and dental plans through Washington Healthplanfinder regardless of immigration status. Financial assistance depends on individual eligibility. Call 1-855-923-4633 for enrollment help and ask whether losing Apple Health gives you a special enrollment opportunity. Those enrollment windows have deadlines, so ask promptly.
HCA says Apple Health Expansion enrollment is currently closed because its limit has been reached. It should not be treated as an immediately available replacement.
Updated Oct. 30, 2026. Sources: HCA noncitizen coverage guidance; HCA’s SSI court-order announcement; DOH coverage and enrollment guidance.
