Washington Hospital Charity Care & Financial Assistance Guide

Check If You Qualify for Financial Assistance in Washington

Use our free calculator to estimate your eligibility based on your household size and annual income.

Washington Charity Care Income Limits

Hospitals in Washington use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine financial assistance eligibility. Generally, patients with income below 200% FPL qualify for free care, and those between 200-400% FPL may receive significant discounts. Exact thresholds vary by hospital. Refer to the calculator table above for FPL income levels.

Your Rights: Washington Hospital Financial Assistance Laws

Washington has a strong Charity Care Act that requires hospitals to provide charity care to patients with incomes below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Hospitals must screen patients for eligibility, provide written notice of charity care availability, and cannot use aggressive collection practices against patients who may qualify.

• Washington's Charity Care Act requires hospitals to provide free or reduced-cost care for patients under 300% FPL
• Hospitals must screen patients for charity care eligibility and provide written notice of availability
• Washington expanded Medicaid (Apple Health) under the ACA, covering adults up to 138% FPL
• The state Department of Health tracks hospital charity care compliance and publishes reports

Information verified: January 28, 2026

Hospitals in Washington with Financial Assistance Programs

These hospitals in Washington offer financial assistance programs for eligible patients.

How to Apply for Hospital Charity Care in Washington

Follow these steps to apply for financial assistance at a hospital:

1. 1

   Request a financial assistance application

   Contact the hospital's billing department and ask for a financial assistance application. Non-profit hospitals are legally required to provide this information.

2. 2

   Gather required documents

   You'll typically need proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), photo ID, proof of residence, and insurance information or proof of uninsured status.

3. 3

   Submit before the deadline

   Most hospitals allow up to 240 days from the first billing statement to apply for financial assistance. Submit your application as early as possible.

4. 4

   Follow up on your application

   Call the billing department regularly to check on your application status. Keep copies of everything you submit.

5. 5

   Appeal if denied

   If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Ask for the specific reasons for denial in writing and provide additional documentation if needed.

Related Resources

Charity Care Guides for Other States