Medicaid Eligibility in Washington 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in Washington

Washington has fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, meaning adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for an individual) qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Washington?

Medicaid in Washington covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (if the state has expanded Medicaid).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in Washington

Seniors in Washington may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in Washington is $1,118/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,982/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in Washington

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in Washington. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $1,118/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in Washington

You can apply for Medicaid in Washington through the following channels:

• Online: Through Washington’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call Washington’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in Washington

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In Washington, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 266,400 dual-eligible individuals in Washington.

Medicaid Asset Limits in Washington

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in Washington has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.