⚠️ This page is updated as guidance changes. Information from federal and state agencies is still changing. The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is the key contact for Health Benefit Exchange information — we update this page regularly as HCA shares the latest guidance.

Apple Health & H.R.1

New federal rules are changing Medicaid. Here's what it means for your coverage.

H.R.1 introduces new work and reporting requirements for some Apple Health (Medicaid) members. This page walks through what’s changing and what to do next.

About House Resolution One (H.R. 1)

A new federal law, H.R. 1, as passed by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump, adds new requirements and makes changes to Apple Health (Medicaid). Many details are still being developed. The Health Care Authority (HCA) is reviewing how these changes will affect Apple Health. Most upcoming changes will occur at the time of a client’s next renewal after changes are implemented.

Key Dates

Upcoming Apple Health Changes

An overview of the changes and when they will take effect.

October 1, 2026 - Lawfully Present Noncitizen Changes
Changes to eligibility for refugees, asylees, and other noncitizen adults.
January 1, 2027 - Work Requirements
To remain eligible, people enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will be required to work, train, or do community engagement 80 hours per month (with some exceptions).
January 1, 2027 - Six-month Renewals
People enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will be required to renew their coverage every six months instead of every twelve months.
January 1, 2027 - Retroactive Coverage
Retroactive coverage will be shortened from three months to one month for Apple Health for Adults and shortened to two months for all other Apple Health programs.

Note: Pregnant individuals and kids are not affected. The new requirements do not apply to people who are pregnant or to children. Their Apple Health eligibility and renewal process stay the same under H.R.1.

Save the Date – Informational H.R.1 Webinars

More information & registration coming soon!

(Coming soon!) H.R.1 Webinar for Insurance Navigators 

Representatives from the Health Care Authority and the Health Benefit Exchange will join insurance navigators for questions on the upcoming changes to enrollment and eligibility, work requirement updates, renewals, and more.

Stay tuned….Registration coming soon!

H.R.1 Webinar for community-based workers and community organizations September 17th @ 11am-12pm

Join other community-based workers across the region as Better Health Together and Greater Health Now share important information about changes to Medicaid enrollment and eligibility coming Fall 2026-2027. Learn about the changes coming and how to support your clients through the transitions. 

So what can I do right now?

Three things to take care of today

You don’t need to wait for final dates to get ready. Start here.

Update your contact information

Make sure Washington Healthplanfinder has your current address, phone, and email so you don’t miss a notice about your coverage.

Check your application

Log in to see your current status. Not sure if you have an account, or lost access to one?

Get help from a Navigator

Insurance Navigators are trained, free, and local. They can walk through your specific situation with you.

How you can get help

Insurance Navigators are here for you

Navigators are a free resource and they are trained on H.R.1 changes. Find one near you through our network.

Help With My Health Coverage

Have questions about your health coverage? Need help understanding your options or enrolling in a health plan? Our Navigators are here to help.

Schedule a free appointment to:

  • Learn about your health coverage options
  • Receive one-on-one guidance
  • Ask questions about your current coverage

Book an Appointment with a Navigator

Partner & Navigator Network Support

If you’re a community partner or member of the Navigator Network, we’re here to support you. Schedule time with our team for:

  • HR1 questions and guidance
  • Partner support and technical assistance
  • Training and education
  • General program support

Schedule Partner Support →

What’s Happening?

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