Menu

Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Washington

Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: September 2025

This hub gives you clear steps to get postpartum health coverage, paid leave, food and cash help, mental health care, transportation to appointments, and day‑to‑day support across Washington. Every paragraph includes direct links so you can click straight to the tool you need.


If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Apply for postpartum Apple Health now: If you were pregnant in the last 12 months, request After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) so your care is covered for a full year. Use After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC), apply through Washington Healthplanfinder, or call HCA Apple Health client line at 1-800-562-3022. (hca.wa.gov)

Reach out for urgent mental health support today: Text or call the 24/7 National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA, contact Perinatal Support Washington’s Warm Line at 1-888-404-7763, or use 988 Lifeline (WA DOH) if you feel unsafe. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Stop a utility shutoff: Call your utility to set a payment plan, then call UTC Consumer Protection at 1-888-333-9882 for help, and request energy help through LIHEAP (Commerce map) right away. (utc.wa.gov)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Who Qualifies for Postpartum Apple Health (Medicaid) and What It Covers

Start here: Get Apple Health After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) for a full 12 months after your pregnancy ends—no gap, no changes if your income shifts, and regardless of how the pregnancy ended. Apply even if you did not have Apple Health during pregnancy, as long as your pregnancy ended within the past 12 months. Use HCA’s APC page, file online through Washington Healthplanfinder, or ask questions via HCA’s client line at 1-800-562-3022. (hca.wa.gov)

Eligibility snapshot: Washington’s Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals uses an income limit up to 210% of the federal poverty level (FPL). If you were enrolled while pregnant, APC starts the first day of the month after your pregnancy ends and runs 12 months. If you were not enrolled, you can still apply for APC within 12 months after the pregnancy month. See HCA’s pregnant individuals guidance and read about the 210% FPL update effective November 1, 2024 in WSHA’s update and the legislative bill report. (hca.wa.gov)

What APC covers: APC provides full-scope medical, behavioral health, pharmacy, transportation to covered care, and limited adult dental benefits. You can confirm dental covered services and how to find a dentist at HCA’s dental page, review general covered benefits at Apple Health benefits, and check your plan on Apple Health managed care. (hca.wa.gov)

How to apply and timeline: Apply online through Washington Healthplanfinder, by phone at 1-855-923-4633 (TTY 1-855-627-9604), or ask HCA’s eligibility team for help. Online applications often process in 10–15 business days; complex cases can take longer. If you were already on Apple Health during pregnancy, APC starts automatically the next month. Call to confirm your enrollment if you don’t see it in your account. (hca.wa.gov)

Required documents: Be ready with your monthly income, an ID, and your address; pregnancy proof can be self‑attested at application. Use HCA’s pregnant individuals page and APC guidance for details. (hca.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call HCA’s client line at 1-800-562-3022, ask a Help Me Grow WA navigator to stay on the line with you, or contact Washington 211 for a local in‑person assister. If your APC application is denied, request an administrative hearing and ask for “continued benefits” while it’s reviewed. (hca.wa.gov)

Apple Health First Steps, Doulas, Breast Pumps, and Postpartum Care

Start here: Ask your clinic to enroll you in First Steps services right away. First Steps includes Maternity Support Services (MSS), Infant Case Management (ICM), and Childbirth Education (CBE). Find providers by county in the First Steps MSS/ICM Directory, learn about First Steps, or call WithinReach/Help Me Grow WA at 1-800-322-2588 for a warm handoff. (hca.wa.gov)

What you get: MSS offers nursing, nutrition, and behavioral health support during pregnancy and up to 60 days postpartum; ICM typically starts after MSS and can continue until your baby’s first birthday. CBE classes are no‑cost when taught by HCA‑approved educators. Read details at First Steps services and find county providers in the MSS/ICM directory or by calling Help Me Grow WA. (hca.wa.gov)

New in 2025 — doula coverage: As of January 1, 2025, Apple Health covers birth doula services statewide. Covered services include one prenatal intake visit, continuous labor and delivery support, and up to 20 hours of prenatal/postpartum visits (including one comprehensive postpartum visit). See HCA’s doula overview, the HCA news release, and HCA Connections explainer; rulemaking and billing guide updates are posted under Provider Billing Guides (Doula). According to HCA, the Legislature approved up to $3,500 per client for doulas. (hca.wa.gov)

How to find a doula: Ask your clinic to refer you to an Apple Health‑enrolled doula, search community lists like Open Arms Perinatal Services, or call WithinReach/Help Me Grow WA to locate a doula in your county. For Swedish births, ask about free doulas for Apple Health enrollees listed under Open Arms community doula agencies. (openarmsps.org)

Breast pumps and lactation support: Apple Health covers manual and electric breast pumps without prior authorization—one per client every three years. Hospital‑grade pumps may be covered when medically necessary. Confirm the pump process at HCA pregnancy services, ask your plan for value‑added extras (for example, Molina Breast Pump info), and connect with WIC peer counselors in your area. (hca.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t find a First Steps slot or a doula with room, ask your clinic to try a different county provider from the MSS/ICM directory, request a referral via Help Me Grow WA, or ask your insurer’s care manager for help scheduling services. If coverage is denied, call HCA MACSC at 1-800-562-3022 to appeal. (hca.wa.gov)

Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML): Time Off and Pay After Birth

Start here: Eligible workers can get up to 12 weeks of Paid Family Leave to bond with a new baby, up to 16 weeks if combining medical recovery and family time, and up to 18 weeks if pregnancy had serious complications. Washington updates the maximum weekly benefit each year; for 2025 the cap is $1,542 per week. Read Find out how Paid Leave works and How Paid Leave works for details. (paidleave.wa.gov)

What you’ll get paid: PFML pays up to 90% of your average weekly pay, capped at $1,542/week in 2025. Use ESD’s estimator from the Paid Leave site and review claim filing rules (you must submit weekly claims). Check how PTO affects benefits at PFML payment rules. (paidleave.wa.gov)

How to apply and timeline: Apply online through the PFML portal, upload proof of birth, and file weekly claims. Many moms see payment within 2–4 weeks after ESD approves the claim; delays are common if documents are missing. Learn program basics and durations at How Paid Leave works and confirm the 2025 maximum at ESD’s Paid Leave page. (paidleave.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Recheck your wage history and documents, then ask ESD to review your claim via the contact tools on Paid Leave. If your employer is blocking leave or retaliates, document everything and contact an employment attorney or the state’s civil rights agencies for help. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Food, Formula, and Nutrition: WIC and Basic Food (SNAP)

Start here: Enroll in WIC for eWIC groceries, breastfeeding support, pumps when needed, and free nutrition help. Apply by calling the WIC Cascades Support Line at 1-800-841-1410, find a local clinic via Help Me Grow WA WIC, and learn about peer counselor support. (doh.wa.gov)

What WIC covers: WIC provides healthy foods on your eWIC card, lactation support, growth checks for baby, and referrals. You may meet with WIC in person or by phone. Keep the WIC card help line 1-844-359-3104 handy, and review state WIC info for program details. (doh.wa.gov)

Add SNAP (Basic Food): SNAP helps pay for groceries. For Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025, the maximum monthly benefit in the 48 states is 975forafamilyoffourand975 for a family of four and 292 for a single adult. Review the federal amounts at USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA, learn how COLA works at USDA COLA explainer, and check Washington rules at DSHS Basic Food standards. Apply through Washington Connection. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If clinic schedules are full, call Help Me Grow WA to secure a WIC appointment, or apply at a different clinic. For SNAP delays or denials, ask DSHS for a same‑day phone interview and request an expedited decision. If you can’t get through, dial Washington 211 and ask for a benefits navigator. (helpmegrowwa.org)

Cash Support When Money Is Tight: TANF, PWA, and One‑Time Cash

Start here: If you’re parenting a child, apply for TANF (WorkFirst). If you’re pregnant and can’t get TANF, apply for the Pregnant Women Assistance (PWA) grant. TANF monthly payment standards are set in rule (for example, a family of three: $706/month). See WAC 388‑478‑0020, read DSHS Cash Assistance standards, and review PWA program details. Apply at Washington Connection. (apps.leg.wa.gov)

If you only need short‑term help: Ask for Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA). As of January 1, 2025, the DCA maximum is $2,000 for one 30‑day period each year to cover rent, car repair, or other bills. Read DSHS DCA, see the WSR rule, and check DSHS emergency resources. (dshs.wa.gov)

Add emergency help if you’re already on TANF: Ask about AREN (Additional Requirements for Emergency Needs) for up to $750 in a 12‑month period, paid to your landlord or utility. See DSHS emergency resources and Cash Assistance standards for rules. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over TANF income but still facing a crisis, ask DSHS about CEAP (Consolidated Emergency Assistance). If your application stalls, call the DSHS Customer Service Center at 1-877-501-2233 and ask for a same‑day call back. You can also ask a Help Me Grow WA navigator to conference in with DSHS. (helpmegrowwa.org)

Free Rides, Dental, Family Planning, and Postpartum Contraception

Transportation to care: Apple Health pays for non‑emergency rides to covered appointments. Contact your county broker from HCA’s transportation directory at least 7–14 days before the visit, or ask your plan to help schedule. (hca.wa.gov)

Adult dental: Apple Health covers routine exams, fillings, extractions, dentures/partials, and more; some services like implants aren’t covered. Find details at Apple Health dental and use DentistLink or call 1-844-888-5465 to find a provider. (hca.wa.gov)

Postpartum contraception: Apple Health covers the full range of FDA‑approved methods including IUDs and implants; if you’re over income later, you can still get services through Family Planning Only (up to 260% FPL). See DSHS family planning for covered methods and where to go. (hca.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get a ride approved in time, ask your broker about a gas voucher or mileage reimbursement. If you can’t find a dental or family planning provider, call HCA MACSC at 1-800-562-3022 or Washington 211 for a local clinic. (hca.wa.gov)

Protect Your Utilities and Keep the Lights On

Stop a shutoff today: Call your utility to set a payment plan and ask to flag a medical emergency if needed. State rules require extra steps before disconnection and fast reconnection after you pay or set a plan. Review consumer rights at UTC’s energy page, disconnection rules at WAC 480‑100‑128, and reconnection rules at WAC 480‑100‑133. (utc.wa.gov)

Apply for LIHEAP and local aid: Use Commerce’s LIHEAP map to reach your county agency for a one‑time heating grant; note income is generally 150% FPL, and benefits vary by county and funds. Learn more at LIHEAP Clearinghouse (WA profile). During heat advisories, disconnections are prohibited under the Utility Extreme Heat Shutoff Moratorium. (commerce.wa.gov)

Seattle example: If you live in Seattle, apply for the Utility Discount Program for 60% off electricity and 50% off water/sewer/garbage and ask about the Emergency Assistance Program. See income limits and contacts at Utility Discount Program page. (seattle.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call UTC Consumer Protection at 1-888-333-9882 to pause a pending shutoff while you set a plan. If LIHEAP is out of funds, ask your utility about company‑funded aid (e.g., PSE’s HELP) listed on your provider’s assistance page. (content.govdelivery.com)

Child Care and Early Learning While You Heal and Return to Work

Start here: Apply for Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) so a licensed provider is covered while you work or attend approved school. Eligibility is up to 60% of State Median Income at application, with co‑pays starting at $0 for the lowest incomes. Review the WCCC page, check the copay chart, and call the Child Care Subsidy Contact Center at 1-844-626-8687. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Early learning: For preschool‑age kids, look into ECEAP and local options like Seattle’s ECEAP. Learn eligibility and City supports at Seattle ECEAP and read DCYF’s updates on expanded eligibility under 2024–2025 legislation at WCCC eligibility news. (dcyf.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re on a waitlist, ask your provider about a temporary scholarship and apply for WCCC anyway to secure a spot when funding opens. Call Washington 211 to locate emergency or sliding‑scale options. (dcyf.wa.gov)

Your Rights at Work: Pumping, Time, and Accommodations

Know your rights: Washington’s pregnancy and postpartum accommodation law requires employers with 15+ employees to provide reasonable break time and a private space (not a bathroom) to express milk for two years after birth, plus basic accommodations like extra restroom breaks and the ability to sit. See L&I pregnancy accommodations and AG guidance on pregnancy and breastfeeding. (lni.wa.gov)

Heads‑up on future changes: A 2025 law expands postpartum protections statewide starting January 1, 2027, including paid lactation breaks for all employers. See municipal legal summary at MRSC 2025 personnel legislation roundup for highlights and timelines. For now, follow current state and federal rules and use DOH’s Lactation & Returning to Work resource to plan. (mrsc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document your requests. If your employer refuses reasonable accommodations, email the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Unit at pregnancy@atg.wa.gov or call 1-833-660-4877; see AG’s rights page. (atg.wa.gov)

Postpartum Mental Health: Real, Treatable, and Covered

Get help fast: Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC‑MAMA, the Perinatal Support WA Warm Line at 1-888-404-7763, or contact the 988 Lifeline (WA DOH). Apple Health covers mental health services; ask your plan for therapy options. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Why this matters: Washington’s Maternal Mortality Review found behavioral health conditions—including suicide and overdose—were the leading cause of pregnancy‑related deaths, and 80% of deaths were preventable. Read DOH’s 2023 Maternal Mortality Report release and see MMRP information. (doh.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If waitlists are long, ask for telehealth. Call Help Me Grow WA and request a local perinatal therapist referral, or ask your primary care to do a “warm handoff” to a mental health provider. Use 988 if you are in crisis. (helpmegrowwa.org)

Child Support and Legal Logistics

Set up child support (or get help modifying): Washington’s Division of Child Support can help establish paternity, set or modify orders, and collect support. Call the KIDS Line at 1-800-442-KIDS, or apply via Enroll for Child Support Services. See updates at the DCS main page. (dshs.wa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach your local office, call the KIDS Line and press 0 for staff. For legal self‑help guides, use WashingtonLawHelp and ask Washington 211 for a referral to low‑cost legal aid. (washingtonlawhelp.org)

Reality Check: Common Delays and How to Avoid Them

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need Where to click/call What to say Notes
Postpartum coverage After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) “I had a pregnancy end within 12 months and need APC.” Coverage lasts 12 months postpartum. (hca.wa.gov)
Doulas Apple Health doula benefit “Help me get a doula covered by Apple Health.” Intake visit + labor support + up to 20 hours pre/post visits. (hca.wa.gov)
Free rides Transportation broker directory “I need NEMT for my covered appointment.” Call 7–14 days before the visit. (hca.wa.gov)
WIC Apply for WIC “I just had a baby and need WIC.” Call 1-800-841-1410 for scheduling. (doh.wa.gov)
PFML Paid Leave basics “I’m bonding with a new baby; I’m filing weekly claims.” 2025 max $1,542/week. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Application Checklist (save/print and check off)

[ ] Proof of pregnancy end date: discharge summary or signed note; if not available, self‑attest on application through Washington Healthplanfinder. (hca.wa.gov)

[ ] Monthly income info: pay stubs or award letters for Apple Health, SNAP, and WCCC child care. (dcyf.wa.gov)

[ ] ID and address: driver’s license, state ID, or other ID for agency files; update address in Healthplanfinder and Washington Connection. (hca.wa.gov)

[ ] ProviderOne number: from your Apple Health card for NEMT rides and pharmacy. (hca.wa.gov)

[ ] Utilities shutoff letter: keep the notice when you ask UTC Consumer Protection to help pause a disconnection. (utc.wa.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting to apply for APC: Many moms think Apple Health ends 60 days postpartum. It’s 12 months now—apply right away through APC or confirm your automatic transition. (hca.wa.gov)
  • Not asking for rides: Missing visits because of transportation costs is common. Book through NEMT brokers 7–14 days beforehand. (hca.wa.gov)
  • Skipping WIC: Many eligible families assume they’re over income. WIC income limits are higher than people expect; call WIC to check. (doh.wa.gov)
  • Letting PFML sit: If you don’t submit weekly claims, payment pauses. Review how PFML works and set calendar reminders. (paidleave.wa.gov)

Resources by Region (examples you can contact today)

Tip: Wherever you live, you can always dial Washington 211 to find local postpartum groups, diaper banks, and housing help. (wa211.org)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Support and Access

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Washington Today

Call your utility now: Ask to set up a payment plan and flag any medical or infant‑health risks. Review rules at UTC consumer rights and WACs 480‑100‑128 and 480‑100‑133 for reconnection timelines.

Apply for LIHEAP: Use the Commerce LIHEAP map to book an appointment. If you’re in Seattle, add the Utility Discount Program and Emergency Assistance right away.

Call for backup: If shutoff is still scheduled, call UTC Consumer Protection at 1-888-333-9882 to request help, then dial Washington 211 for local energy aid programs.

Tables You Can Use

Apple Health Postpartum Coverage at a Glance

Program Who qualifies Income Coverage length Where to apply
Apple Health for Pregnant Individuals Pregnant people living in WA Up to 210% FPL Through pregnancy Washington Healthplanfinder
After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) Pregnancy ended within last 12 months No income test once enrolled 12 months postpartum HCA / Healthplanfinder
Family Planning Only Those needing contraception Up to 260% FPL Ongoing 12‑month eligibility HCA apply options

Paid Family & Medical Leave (2025)

Type Weeks Max weekly benefit How to apply
Medical leave Up to 12 (medical recovery) $1,542 File online; submit weekly claims.
Family/bonding leave Up to 12 (bonding) $1,542 Use ESD estimator at Paid Leave site.
Combined events/complications Up to 16/18 $1,542 Apply promptly after birth.

Food and Cash Programs

Program What you get Quick link
WIC eWIC foods, breastfeeding help, growth checks Call 1-800-841-1410.
Basic Food (SNAP) Monthly EBT; 2025 max $975/4‑person Apply at Washington Connection.
TANF Monthly cash (e.g., $706 for 3 people) Use Washington Connection.
PWA $450/mo if pregnant and not TANF‑eligible Apply online or at DSHS.
DCA One‑time $2,000 max in 12 months Ask DSHS for Diversion.

Utility Help and Protections

Tool What it does Link
LIHEAP (Commerce map) One‑time energy grant Schedule local appointment.
UTC Consumer Protection Stops improper shutoffs Call 1-888-333-9882.
Seattle Utility Discount Program 60% off electricity, 50% off utilities Apply online or call 1-206-684-0268.

Local & Community Support

Area Resource What they provide
King/Snohomish/Pierce Open Arms Perinatal Services Free community‑based doulas, lactation, classes.
King County WestSide Baby Diapers, car seats, clothing via partners.
Multi‑county KidVantage Gear/diapers through partner agencies.
Statewide Help Me Grow WA Family resource navigation in many languages.

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

Apple Health/APC: Ask for a reconsideration and request an administrative hearing if needed; call HCA MACSC 1-800-562-3022. Ask Help Me Grow WA to conference in for support.

PFML: Appeal online with ESD and upload missing proof. Review Paid Leave rules before refiling.

SNAP/TANF: Request a case review and write “good cause” statements for any deadlines you missed. Use Washington Connection to upload documents and keep records of submission dates.

Real‑World Examples

  • APC after loss: You had a miscarriage three months ago and never had Apple Health. You can still apply for APC within 12 months of the end of pregnancy. Use Healthplanfinder to apply and call 1-800-562-3022 if you need help verifying dates.
  • No car, new baby: Book a ride with your county NEMT broker to attend your 2‑week postpartum check. If you call within 48 hours, ask if they can still accommodate.
  • Power shutoff notice: You received a five‑day disconnect notice. Call your utility, set a payment plan, apply for LIHEAP, and notify UTC at 1-888-333-9882 if the shutoff remains scheduled.

FAQs (Washington‑specific)

  1. How long does Apple Health cover me after birth?
    APC covers you for 12 months postpartum, starting the first day of the month after pregnancy ends. See APC and HCA pregnant individuals guidance.
  2. I didn’t have Apple Health while pregnant—can I still get APC?
    Yes. Apply within 12 months of the pregnancy month through Healthplanfinder or call HCA.
  3. Can I get a doula covered?
    Yes. As of Jan 1, 2025, Apple Health covers doula services statewide. Learn more at HCA doulas and HCA news release.
  4. Will Apple Health pay for a breast pump?
    Yes—manual and electric pumps without prior authorization (one every three years). See HCA pregnancy services.
  5. How much does PFML pay in 2025?
    Up to 90% of your pay, capped at $1,542/week. See Paid Leave 2025 amounts.
  6. What if my power is about to be shut off?
    You have rights. Call your utility, apply for LIHEAP, and contact UTC Consumer Protection at 1-888-333-9882.
  7. Can I get child care help while in school or job training?
    Yes. Apply for WCCC; college and WorkFirst activities may qualify.
  8. I need diapers and a safe car seat—who helps?
    Ask local partners listed by KidVantage, WestSide Baby, or dial 211.
  9. Where can I get postpartum mental health care that understands my culture?
    Start with Perinatal Support WA for culturally‑matched referrals, and use HCA plan contacts for network providers.
  10. How can Tribal members use Apple Health and still go to Tribal clinics?
    You can enroll in Apple Health and keep using Tribal/Urban Indian clinics with no out‑of‑pocket cost; see HCA Tribal coverage and HCA Office of Tribal Affairs.

Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Use los enlaces oficiales para confirmar detalles actuales.

  • Cobertura médica después del parto (APC): Obtenga cobertura por 12 meses después del embarazo. Solicite en Healthplanfinder o llame a HCA al 1-800-562-3022.
  • Apoyo de doulas y servicios First Steps: Doulas están cubiertas por Apple Health desde el 1 de enero de 2025. Busque proveedores en HCA doulas y First Steps.
  • Permiso Familiar y Médico Pagado (PFML): Hasta 12–18 semanas; pago máximo 2025 de $1,542/semana. Vea Paid Leave.
  • Alimentos (WIC y SNAP): Llame a WIC 1-800-841-1410 o solicite SNAP en Washington Connection.
  • Asistencia de servicios públicos: Solicite LIHEAP y conozca sus derechos en UTC.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Medical, legal, and financial topics change: Confirm all details with the official agencies linked in this guide. For emergencies, dial 911. For mental health crises, call or text 988 or the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA.

What to do if any of this doesn’t work

  • Call to confirm current availability before applying: Funding and slots change. Always verify with the contact numbers on HCA, DSHS, DCYF, or DOH. Use Washington 211 if you need a navigator to stay on the phone with you.
  • Keep records: Screenshot applications and save case numbers. If a deadline passes, request “good cause” and resubmit right away. Use agency contact pages to escalate appeals.

This hub is your map. Use the links, call the numbers, and take one step at a time. You can get covered, paid, and supported while you heal and care for your baby.

🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington

Related Posts