Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Help for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: September 2025

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Emergency help now

• 911 for immediate danger.
• 988: Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7).
• Help Me Grow Washington Hotline: 1-800-322-2588 for connections to WIC, Apple Health enrollment help, food, diapers, and local resources. (helpmegrowwa.org)
• Washington 2-1-1: Dial 211 or call 1-877-211-9274 if 211 doesn’t connect, for statewide referrals to housing, utilities, diapers, legal help, and more. (wa211.org)

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Quick help box

• Goal: Get your free breast pump with the fastest route for your situation below.
• If you have Apple Health (Medicaid): Pumps are covered with no prior authorization for manual or electric pumps (limit one every three years). Hospital‑grade rentals need prior authorization. Call your managed care plan first. (hca.wa.gov)
• If you have private insurance: Washington requires most plans to cover breastfeeding supplies, equipment, and lactation support at no cost when you use in‑network providers. If denied, file a complaint with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. (insurance.wa.gov)
• If you don’t have insurance: Apply for Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals (income up to 210% FPL) and/or WIC. You can start Apple Health quickly through Washington Healthplanfinder; coverage begins the first day of the month you apply. WIC can also provide breast pumps at some clinics. (hca.wa.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Working and need to pump: Federal and Washington laws protect your right to breaks and a private, non‑bathroom space to pump. Washington requires accommodations for up to two years after birth; federal protections apply for at least one year. (doh.wa.gov, dol.gov)

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Why this guide is different

• Solid numbers you can use now: Current income limits, benefit caps, and grant amounts for Washington programs (Apple Health, WIC, Paid Family & Medical Leave, TANF/PWA). Sources are official and dated.
• Action‑first steps: Each section starts with what to do today, plus Plan B if it doesn’t work.
• State‑specific shortcuts: Managed care plan phones, WIC hotlines, and local lactation resources statewide.

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Quick reference cheat sheet

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Step‑by‑step: Apple Health route to a free breast pump (fastest for most single moms)

Start here if you are pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months.

• Step 1 — Apply for Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals: Eligibility is up to 210% FPL and includes people regardless of immigration status. Coverage starts the first day of the month you apply. You’ll receive a ProviderOne card in about two weeks. (hca.wa.gov)
• Step 2 — Choose your managed care plan: Plans include Community Health Plan of Washington, Coordinated Care, Molina Healthcare, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, and Wellpoint Washington. Phones: 1-800-440-1561, 1-877-644-4613, 1-800-869-7165, 1-877-542-8997, 1-833-731-2167. (hca.wa.gov)
• Step 3 — Ask your plan for your pump: Apple Health covers manual and electric pumps with no prior authorization; hospital‑grade rentals need prior authorization and a medical reason. Your plan will direct you to an in‑network DME supplier and tell you whether a prescription is needed. (hca.wa.gov)
• Step 4 — Timing tip: Some plans let you order before birth (for example, CHPW allows requests up to 90 days before your due date with a prescription). This avoids shipping delays. (chpw.org)
• Step 5 — Get lactation help: Apple Health covers lactation support, First Steps Maternity Support Services (MSS), Infant Case Management (ICM), and childbirth education at no cost through approved providers. Use the First Steps directory or call 1-800-322-2588 to find services. (hca.wa.gov)

What you need ready:

• Proof of income: Latest pay stubs or self‑attestation if none.
• Identity and details: Names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers (if available) for household members.
• Due date: From your provider (many plans accept self‑attestation; some will ask for a prescription for the pump). (hca.wa.gov)

Reality check: Some DME suppliers have limited pump brands or backorders. If the brand you want isn’t available, ask for an equivalent model that’s in stock. If your plan can’t find a contracted supplier near you, ask for a limitation extension or exception to use a different supplier. (hca.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call HCA’s client line: 1-800-562-3022 for help resolving plan or supplier issues.
• File an appeal with your plan: If a hospital‑grade rental is denied, request a medical necessity review.
• Contact WIC: Ask your local WIC clinic about temporary multi‑user electric pump loans if you’re awaiting your covered pump. (hca.wa.gov, doh.wa.gov)

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Don’t have coverage yet? Fast options to qualify

Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals

• Who qualifies: Pregnant residents with income up to 210% FPL. Post‑pregnancy, Apple Health provides 12 months of After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC). Children get continuous Apple Health enrollment from birth up to age 6. (hca.wa.gov)
• Monthly income examples with the 5% disregard:

• How to apply: Apply at Washington Healthplanfinder or call 1-855-923-4633. Coverage begins the first day of the month you apply. (wahealthplanfinder.org, hca.wa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for Apple Health, consider WIC for lactation support and pumps at some clinics, and use your private plan’s breastfeeding benefits (see next section). (doh.wa.gov, insurance.wa.gov)

WIC in Washington

• What WIC offers: Monthly food benefits, lactation support, and breast pumps at some clinics. Many appointments can be done by phone. Being on WIC does not affect immigration status. (doh.wa.gov)
• 2025 WIC income guidelines (effective June 2, 2025):

• Fruit and vegetable dollar amounts (CVB) for FY 2025: Children $26\ast \ast /mo;pregnantandpostpartum\ast \ast$47/mo; mostly/fully breastfeeding $52/mo (inflation‑adjusted). (fns.usda.gov)
• How to connect: Use the WIC clinic locator or call 1-800-841-1410; Help Me Grow WA can also connect you at 1-800-322-2588. (doh.wa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If a clinic has limited pumps, ask about loaner options, peer counselor support, and a referral to your insurer’s DME network for a covered pump. (kingcounty.gov)

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Private insurance: Get your pump at no cost

• What to know: Washington requires state‑regulated plans to cover breastfeeding services (supplies, equipment, lactation help) at no cost when you use in‑network providers. Your plan may require a prescription and the use of specified DME suppliers. (insurance.wa.gov)
• How to proceed: Call the number on your card and ask:
  • Coverage specifics: Types of pumps covered, brand options, and whether rental is allowed.
  • Prescription rules: Whether your provider must write “double‑electric personal pump” or similar.
  • Supplier rules: Which DME companies are in‑network and how to order.
• If denied: File a complaint with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner online. They investigate coverage denials for breastfeeding services. (insurance.wa.gov)
• Real‑world example: Community Health Plan of Washington lets members request a pump up to 90 days before the due date with a prescription and directs members to specific suppliers for shipping. (chpw.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your doctor for a medical‑necessity note for a hospital‑grade rental if needed; appeal internally, then with OIC if still denied. (insurance.wa.gov)

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Your rights to pump at work

• Federal protections (PUMP Act): Most workers have the right to reasonable pump breaks and a private space (not a bathroom) for at least one year after birth. The space must be shielded from view and free from intrusion. (dol.gov)
• Washington protections: State guidance requires reasonable accommodations for pumping for up to two years after birth and access to a private lactation space. For help or to file a complaint, contact the Attorney General’s office at 833-389-2427 or email pregnancy@atg.wa.gov. (doh.wa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Document requests in writing, contact your HR, then file with the AG’s office or the U.S. Department of Labor as needed. (doh.wa.gov, dol.gov)

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Paid time off to recover and bond

• Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave basics: Up to 12 weeks of medical leave (recovery) and up to 12 weeks of family leave (bonding). Combined total up to 16 weeks, or 18 weeks with pregnancy‑related complications (such as a C‑section). Apply within 30 days of your qualifying event. No waiting week for bonding or postnatal medical leave. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• How much you’re paid in 2025: Up to 90% of your weekly wage, capped at $1,542 per week for claims filed on or after January 1, 2025. The cap updates annually. (esd.wa.gov)
• How to apply fast: Create an account at PaidLeave.wa.gov, upload your proof of birth (the state’s Certification of Birth form works), and file separate applications if you’re taking both medical and family leave. (paidleave.wa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim stalls, call Paid Leave or ask your employer if they offer supplemental pay so your weekly amount isn’t reduced by PTO. (paidleave.wa.gov)

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First Steps: Extra maternity and infant support covered by Apple Health

• What it includes: Maternity Support Services (MSS), Infant Case Management (ICM), and Childbirth Education. MSS offers nursing, nutrition, and behavioral health support during pregnancy and shortly after; ICM can continue through your baby’s first birthday. (hca.wa.gov)
• Find providers: Use the statewide First Steps directory or call 1-800-322-2588. Services are offered in clinics, at home, or virtually. (hca.wa.gov)
• New in 2025 — Doula coverage: Apple Health now reimburses birth doula services. The Legislature approved up to $3,500 per doula per client. Coverage launched January 1, 2025. (hca.wa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If there’s no local MSS/ICM provider, ask your plan for help with another site or virtual services. (hca.wa.gov)

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Dollars and limits you asked for

Apple Health pump coverage and delivery

• Covered items: Manual and electric pumps without prior authorization (one per client every three years). Hospital‑grade rentals covered when medically necessary with prior authorization. Apple Health covers delivery in hospitals, birth centers, and planned home births by licensed providers. (hca.wa.gov)
• Plan contacts:
  • Community Health Plan of Washington 1-800-440-1561
  • Coordinated Care 1-877-644-4613
  • Molina Healthcare 1-800-869-7165
  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan 1-877-542-8997
  • Wellpoint Washington 1-833-731-2167 (hca.wa.gov)

WIC benefit amounts for fruits and vegetables (FY 2025)

• Children: $26/mo
• Pregnant & postpartum: $47/mo
• Mostly/fully breastfeeding: $52/mo (fns.usda.gov)

Cash assistance that can help during pregnancy

• TANF monthly grant examples (state standards): Family of three $706\ast \ast ;four\ast \ast$833. (apps.leg.wa.gov)
• Pregnant Women Assistance (PWA): $450 per month for pregnant individuals not eligible for TANF. Apply online or via 1-877-501-2233 (DSHS). (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, apps.leg.wa.gov)

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Clean pumping and safe milk storage

• Cleaning: Wash pump parts after every use; sanitize at least daily if your baby is under two months or medically fragile. (cdc.gov)
• Storage times: Fresh milk is safe at room temp up to 4 hours; in the fridge up to 4 days; freezer about 6 months is best (up to 12 months acceptable). Never microwave breast milk. (cdc.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long to order: Don’t wait until after delivery; many plans allow ordering in the third trimester (some up to 90 days pre‑due date). (chpw.org)
• Buying retail first: Most plans won’t reimburse retail purchases unless pre‑authorized; use in‑network DME suppliers. (insurance.wa.gov)
• Skipping WIC: Even if you earn too much for Apple Health, you might still qualify for WIC; it offers pumps at some clinics and strong lactation support. (doh.wa.gov)
• Not asserting workplace rights: Pumping in a bathroom is not allowed under federal law; Washington also gives you up to two years of protected accommodations. (dol.gov, doh.wa.gov)

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What to do if this still doesn’t work

• Plan escalation: Call your plan’s member services and ask for care management to help locate a DME supplier.
• HCA help: Call 1-800-562-3022 if you cannot access covered equipment or services. (hca.wa.gov)
• OIC complaint for private plans: If your insurer won’t cover a pump or lactation visits, file with the Insurance Commissioner. (insurance.wa.gov)
• Temporary support: Ask your hospital lactation clinic or local WIC for a short‑term pump loan or rental while coverage issues are resolved. (swedish.org, doh.wa.gov)

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Tables you can skim fast

Program‑by‑program: How to get your pump

Apple Health income limits for pregnant individuals (monthly)

WIC income guidelines (monthly, effective June 2, 2025)

Paid Family & Medical Leave at a glance (2025)

Key contacts (save these)

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Local lactation and baby‑supply resources

• La Leche League of Washington: Peer support groups statewide; Eastern WA helpline 509-761-9181; find your local group online. (lllwa.org)
• Swedish Lytle Center (Seattle): Pump rentals, lactation visits, daily hours 9 a.m.–5 p.m., phone 206-215-9853. (swedish.org)
• MultiCare Lactation (Tacoma): Lactation consults and pump rentals; phone 253-403-1331. (resources.helpmegrowwa.org)
• KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner): Maternity and baby supplies via partner agencies; phone 425-865-0234. (kidvantagenw.org)
• WestSide Baby (King County): Diapers and essentials; main line 206-767-1662. (westsidebaby.org)
• Milk donation and access: Northwest Mothers Milk Bank drop sites across WA (Everett, Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Yakima, more). Donor screening is free; info line 800-204-4444. Providence also opened a Spokane milk collection center in 2025. (donatemilk.org, blog.providence.org)

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Diverse communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Coverage: Apple Health and WIC benefits are based on income and pregnancy status, not sexual orientation. Access: DOH’s lactation resources and WIC materials are available in many languages and formats; ask for inclusive lactation support and chest/breastfeeding guidance. Plan B: If a provider isn’t affirming, switch within your plan network or call HCA for help. (doh.wa.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Coverage: Apple Health covers durable medical equipment and medically necessary hospital‑grade pump rentals with prior authorization; First Steps and ICM can coordinate services and referrals. Plan B: Ask your plan case manager to arrange in‑home lactation support when travel is difficult. (hca.wa.gov)
• Veteran single mothers (TRICARE): Coverage: One pump per birth event, extensive supplies (e.g., storage bags, valves) and lactation counseling covered at no cost; hospital‑grade rental when medically necessary. How‑to: Get a prescription and buy in‑network (or submit a claim with receipt). (tricare.mil)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Coverage: Apple Health pregnancy and 12‑month postpartum coverage regardless of immigration status; WIC is safe and not a public charge. Help: Call Help Me Grow WA 1-800-322-2588 for language support. (hca.wa.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Options: Many tribes operate Tribal TANF and coordinate with state services. How‑to: Ask your tribal social services office or see DSHS’s Tribal TANF agreements list and DCS tribal contacts for support. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
• Rural moms with limited access: Tips: Use virtual lactation visits through your plan, ask WIC about phone appointments and loaner pumps, and request mail‑order DME shipping. Backup: Call 1-800-562-3022 if your plan can’t locate a nearby supplier. (doh.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov)
• Single fathers raising newborns: Note: Dads can enroll their infants in Apple Health and receive WIC for the baby; workplace pumping laws still apply to the birthing parent at their job. Plan B: Use hospital lactation clinics and WIC peer counselors for bottle‑feeding with expressed milk. (doh.wa.gov)
• Language access: Where to start: WIC and DOH lactation pages offer materials in many languages; Help Me Grow WA provides live interpreters. Phones: WIC 1-800-841-1410, Help Me Grow 1-800-322-2588. (doh.wa.gov)

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Application checklist

• Apple Health:
  • Online account: Washington Healthplanfinder login.
  • Income proof: Latest pay stubs or statement.
  • Household details: SSNs if available, dates of birth, address.
  • Due date: From your provider (self‑attestation accepted to start). (hca.wa.gov)
• WIC:
  • ID and address: For you and your child.
  • Income proof: Pay stubs or Apple Health enrollment.
  • Appointment: Phone or in‑person; many clinics can issue food benefits same day. (doh.wa.gov)

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10 Washington‑specific FAQs

• Q — Does Apple Health really cover a pump with no prior authorization?
  Answer: Yes. Manual and personal electric pumps are covered with no prior authorization, limited to one every three years; hospital‑grade rentals require prior authorization. (hca.wa.gov)
• Q — Can I order my pump before baby arrives?
  Answer: Often yes. For example, CHPW allows requests up to 90 days before your due date with a prescription. Check with your plan. (chpw.org)
• Q — My immigration status is complicated. Can I still get Apple Health during pregnancy?
  Answer: Yes. Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals and After‑Pregnancy Coverage are available regardless of immigration status (income rules apply). (hca.wa.gov)
• Q — How long is postpartum coverage?
  Answer: Apple Health provides 12 months of After‑Pregnancy Coverage starting the first day of the month after your pregnancy ends. (hca.wa.gov)
• Q — What are the 2025 WIC fruit and vegetable amounts?
  Answer: Children $26\ast \ast /mo;pregnantandpostpartum\ast \ast$47/mo; mostly/fully breastfeeding $52/mo (FY 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
• Q — What’s the 2025 PFML maximum weekly payment?
  Answer: $1,542 for claims filed on or after January 1, 2025. (esd.wa.gov)
• Q — What if my employer tells me to pump in the bathroom?
  Answer: That violates federal law; a bathroom cannot be the pumping space. Washington also requires accommodations for up to two years. (dol.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Q — I’m not eligible for TANF right now. Is there cash help while pregnant?
  Answer: Yes. Pregnant Women Assistance pays $450/mo for those not eligible for TANF. Apply via DSHS at 1-877-501-2233. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, apps.leg.wa.gov)
• Q — Does Apple Health cover doulas?
  Answer: Yes. As of January 1, 2025, Apple Health reimburses doula services; the Legislature approved up to $3,500 per doula per client. (hca.wa.gov)
• Q — Where can I donate or access donor milk in Washington?
  Answer: Northwest Mothers Milk Bank operates milk drop sites statewide, and Providence opened a Spokane collection center in 2025. Ask your NICU or lactation team. (donatemilk.org, blog.providence.org)

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What this guide adds that others miss

• Exact 2025 numbers: PFML cap $1,542, WIC CVB amounts for FY 2025, TANF/PWA dollar figures, and Apple Health pump rules.
• Managed care shortcuts: Direct plan phone numbers and the “order up to 90 days pre‑due date” tip some guides skip.
• Doula benefit update: Apple Health reimbursement in effect as of 2025 with the highest approved rate nationally. (hca.wa.gov)

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About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Dedicated benefits researchers focused on Washington programs.

How we source: We rely on official Washington agencies and USDA/US DOL guidance. See citations after statements with dollar amounts or rules.

Editorial standards: See our Editorial Standards for research methods, verification, and update timelines.

Verification cadence: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and fix verified errors promptly per our policy.

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Disclaimer

Important: Program rules, dollar amounts, and eligibility levels change. Always confirm details with the agency or plan linked in this guide before you apply or make purchases.

Health content: This guide is informational and not medical advice. Talk with your clinician about your health and infant‑feeding decisions.

Site security: We never ask for your Social Security number, banking information, or full medical records. If a link looks suspicious, do not enter personal data—report it to us at info@asinglemother.org so we can review and keep this site safe for everyone.

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Sources

• Apple Health pregnancy services and pump coverage: Washington HCA Pregnancy Services page; Managed Care contacts and plan list; Client line. (hca.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov)
• Apple Health eligibility and income (210% FPL) and APC: HCA Pregnant Individuals page; Apple Health pregnancy income increase announcement. (hca.wa.gov)
• First Steps MSS/ICM and directory: HCA First Steps pages. (hca.wa.gov)
• Doula benefit (2025): HCA news release and doula program page; Emergency rulemaking. (hca.wa.gov, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
• WIC eligibility, clinic access, and 2025 CVB amounts: WA DOH WIC pages; USDA FNS FY 2025 CVB memo. (doh.wa.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Workplace pumping rights: US DOL PUMP Act pages and fact sheets; WA DOH lactation accommodations. (dol.gov, doh.wa.gov)
• Private insurance coverage: WA Office of the Insurance Commissioner breastfeeding coverage page. (insurance.wa.gov)
• Paid Family & Medical Leave: PaidLeave.wa.gov application, rules and durations; ESD 2025 maximum weekly benefit. (paidleave.wa.gov, esd.wa.gov)
• TANF/PWA grant amounts: WAC 388‑478 payment standards; DSHS PWA program page. (apps.leg.wa.gov, manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
• Cleaning and storage: CDC guidance for pump hygiene and breast milk storage. (cdc.gov)
• Local resources: La Leche League of Washington; Swedish Lytle Center; MultiCare Lactation; Northwest Mothers Milk Bank; Providence Spokane collection center. (lllwa.org, swedish.org, resources.helpmegrowwa.org, donatemilk.org, blog.providence.org)

If you need help applying or choosing a plan, call Help Me Grow Washington at 1-800-322-2588 for free, friendly navigation. (helpmegrowwa.org)

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🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers

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