How to apply for Hospital Financial Assistance (Harborview Medical Center / UW Medical Center (Seattle)) — King in Washington

Harborview Medical Center / UW Medical Center (Seattle) — UW Medicine

Who it's for

Uninsured and underinsured residents of King County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Harborview Medical Center / UW Medical Center (Seattle) for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. UW Medicine financial assistance (WA Charity Care Act, RCW 70.170) covers Harborview Medical Center, UW Medical Center (Montlake and Northwest), UW Physicians, UW Medicine Primary Care, and Airlift Northwest; Valley Medical Center (Renton) has its own separate financial assistance policy. Page states: 'UW Medicine provides financial assistance for any patient/guarantor whose gross family income is up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)' with '0% - 300% of the FPL for a 100% financial assistance discount', 75% at 301-350% FPL and 50% at 351-400% FPL (facility services at Harborview and UW Medical Center). Financial counselors: 206-744-3084.

Charity care is income-based and set by the hospital's financial assistance policy; the hospital makes the final award decision, so this shows as a may-qualify result.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Proof of household income (tax return, pay stubs, or benefit award letter)
  • Proof of family/household size
  • Proof of residency and identification

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-206-744-3084

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Hospital Financial Assistance (Harborview Medical Center / UW Medical Center (Seattle)) — King. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of household income (tax return, pay stubs, or benefit award letter), proof of family/household size, proof of residency and identification — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual (reapply per policy)

Official source →Last verified · October 7, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.