Reduce Fear with Facts
Effective as of Dec. 23, 2022, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has returned to longstanding public charge policy, making it safe for non-citizens and their families to access health programs for which they qualify. Many non-citizen residents could be eligible for free or low-cost health insurance through Washington Healthplanfinder.
Receiving health coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder – including Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) will not affect your or a family member’s immigration status or citizenship application. More information about Medicaid is available from Apple Health.
When you apply for coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder, citizenship or immigration status information is only used to determine health plan eligibility. Federal and state laws protect your privacy. This information is not used for immigration enforcement.
If you have questions about federal public charge rules, your status or a family member’s status, and/or use of benefits, contact one of the following organizations for free and confidential help:
- CLEAR Hotline: 1-888-201-1014
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP): NWIRP Seattle Office: 206-587-4009; NWIRP Yakima Valley (Granger) Office: 509-854-2100; NWIRP Wenatchee Office: 509-570-0054
