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Changes coming to Apple Health
This page shares information on the recent federal changes to Medicaid (known as H.R. 1) that may impact your Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage. This page is for Apple Health clients. If you are a legislator, partner, or other stakeholders, view our H.R. 1 impacts webpage.
Federal changes (known as H.R. 1) are coming to Apple Health (Medicaid) over the next few years, but there is nothing you need to do right now. These changes will roll out slowly, and many details are still being developed. We are sharing information now, so you know what to expect.
What this means for you
The Health Care Authority (HCA) is reviewing how these changes will affect Apple Health. Our top priority is to keep you updated and let you know if you need to take action to keep your coverage. We are committed to making any changes as easy as possible.
Changes will roll out over the next few years, and many details are still being developed. If changes to eligibility, coverage, or benefits are required, we will share that information clearly and early, so you know what to expect.
Expected changes
View the following table for examples of some expected federal changes that may affect your coverage.
| Change | Start date |
|---|---|
| Changes to eligibility for refugee, asylee, and other noncitizen adults. View the fact sheet (available in 15 languages). | October 1, 2026 |
| 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). View the fact sheet (available in 15 languages). | January 1, 2027 |
| People enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will be required to renew their coverage every six months instead of twelve months. View the fact sheet (available in 15 languages). | January 1, 2027 |
| 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. View the fact sheet (available in 15 languages). | January 1, 2027 |
| People enrolled in Apple Health for Adults will have to pay cost-sharing up to $35 for many services. This does not include primary care, behavioral health, emergency services, and services given in certain rural settings. | October 1, 2028 |
How to stay informed
To make sure you receive important updates:
- Check this page regularly for new information.
- Keep your contact information up to date in your Apple Health account so we can reach you.
- Notices about changes to your coverage will be sent by mail or email, depending on your notification preference.
- Check your mail and email for important updates about your coverage.
Frequently asked questions
- What is H.R. 1?
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H.R. 1 also called the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBA) is a new law from the federal government. It will bring some changes to public programs in the next few years. Many details are still being worked out.
- Do I need to do anything right now?
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No. You do not need to do anything at this time. Your current benefits stay the same. View the table under Expected changes to stay up to date on when changes will happen.
- Will my benefits change?
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Right now, nothing is changing for your benefits. If anything changes in the future, we will tell you early and explain what it means.
- When will changes happen?
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Changes will happen slowly over several years. They will not happen all at once. We will share new information when we get it. View the table under Expected changes to stay up to date on when changes will happen.
- Will I lose my health care or other help?
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No. Your benefits do not change right now. If things change later, we will help you understand what to do.