Washington Basic Health is a Government Agency currently providing Health Insurance benefits to low-income families. When you apply your premium is based on the gross family income (before deductions). If you are self employed, Basic Health will use an annual summary of you income and expenses. To qualify you must meet the income guidelines.

During the application process you will be asked 5 quick questions.

First question will be how many people are in your family. When doing this you will need to count all family members whether you want them included or not on the health insurance package.

The second question asked is how many people in your family need coverage.

Third question will ask you to choose the Main Subscriber’s age. If you are only insuring children with this coverage, use the oldest child as your main subscriber. An individual under the age of 19 who is the main subscriber will be charged at a premium rate for a person between 19-39 years of age. I have no idea why this is but thats the way I understand it. If you happen to be over the age of 64, should contact Basic Health to determine eligibility.

The fourth and fifth question you will be asked is what your monthly income and what county you live in.

Once these questions are asked their system will respond 1 of 2 ways. It will either come up with a monthly premium for the insurance coverage needed or deny your request due to income guidelines.

Visit www.basichealth.hca.wa.gov/rate.html to see if you qualify.

State Childrens Health Insurance Program

For children there is also a program available, provide by the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services. No wonder they made it an acronym. (DSHS)

Income guidlines are a little easier to understand so no form needs to be filled to find out if your children qualify. Below is a list of guidelines which are set up until March of 2009. If you find yourself reading this after March 2009, visit fortress.wa.gov

For 1 Family Member

your income must not exceed $1,734 for free health insurance. Income can be in between $1,735 to $2,167 for Government assisted low cost health insurance.

For 2 Family Members

your income must not exceed $2,334 for free health insurance. Income can be in between $2,335 to $2,917 for Government assisted low cost health insurance.

For 3 Family Members

your income must not exceed $2,934 for free health insurance. Income can be in between $2,935 to $3,667 for Government assisted low cost health insurance.

For 4 Family Members

your income must not exceed $3,534 for free health insurance. Income can be in between $3,535 to $4,417 for Government assisted low cost health insurance.

For 5 Family Members

your income must not exceed $4,134 for free health insurance. Income can be in between $4,135 to $5,167 for Government assisted low cost health insurance.

If your income is above these amounts, they encourage Families to call 1-877-KIDS-NOW.

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