OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washingtonians using the state’s Exchange for individual health insurance will see an average rate increase of 21% in 2026. The Washington Health Benefit Exchange Board will review the approved plans and rates on Thursday, September 11.
Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer highlighted the challenges this increase poses. “Another year of increased premiums will be hard to hear for the thousands of Washingtonians who buy their own health coverage,” she said. Kuderer attributed the increase to insurers’ proven need for a rate change, including federal uncertainty and rising health care costs.
Nearly 300,000 residents purchased plans through the Exchange last year, with 75% receiving federal premium tax credits. However, these credits, which reduced costs by $1,330 on average, are set to expire unless Congress acts to renew them.
The expiration of these credits could lead to 80,000 people dropping their coverage. Kuderer expressed concern about affordability, saying, “We know from experience that when premiums become less affordable, younger and healthier people drop coverage.”
Insurers have cited various factors for the rate increase, including the potential expiration of tax credits, rising costs, and increased service usage. The state is considering measures to improve affordability, but Kuderer stressed the urgency of moving towards universal coverage.
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