14 insurers asked for an average 21.2% jump. Early filings point to the biggest premium jump in years.
Passing along some frustrating (but important) news about health insurance in Washington State, particularly for those following the individual market. As shared by the Washington State Insurance Commissioner, for 2026, insurance carriers have submitted an average requested increase of 21.2% for individual health plans. Yes, you read that right. While these are still preliminary filings and subject to negotiation, we’re unlikely to see a significant reduction. We might hope for a 5% cut at best, but even that feels overly optimistic.
Why the 21% Request Matters
As I’ve said, the individual market acts as a “canary in the coal mine,” often indicating where group plan rates are headed the following year. This trajectory should concern both employers and individuals.
Rate History: 2019-2024 at a Glance
To provide some historical context, here are the average annual rate changes for individual market plans on the WA Health Exchange over the past several years:
- 2024: +8.94%
- 2023: +8.18%
- 2022: +4.14%
- 2021: -3.20%
- 2020: -3.27%
- 2019: +13.8%
While these are not group plan rates, they are a clear indicator of broader market trends and underlying cost pressures. And it’s clear we’re trending in the wrong direction. Steep, year-over-year increases like this simply aren’t sustainable for families or for businesses.
What You Can Do About Rising Costs
If you’re frustrated, now’s the time to act. Actuaries will review filings through summer, with final numbers due this fall. Contact your state legislators and tell them the current system isn’t working. The Washington health insurance market needs serious attention and reform.
Find your legislators here: WA State District Finder.
Another way employers can fight back against rising healthcare costs is by quoting Business Health Trust (BHT). BHT is the only place in WA offering access to Nice Healthcare. It’s not another virtual care option. It’s a clinic providing $0 virtual visits, $0 in-home visits (within the WA service area), and $0 for over 550 common generic medications when prescribed by Nice, including many over-the-counter options. And for HSA plans, it’s only $5 for the initial visit, with follow-on care at $0. Employees and their eligible dependents on a BHT plan can access comprehensive primary care, mental health services, labs, X-rays, physical therapy, and more, often from the comfort of their home and usually within a day. It’s a proactive, cost-effective solution in today’s health insurance climate.
Matt Childs
President, Sapper Insurance
Helping WA employers manage rising health costs.