The needs of our customers inform the Exchange’s efforts to create affordable pathways to quality health and dental insurance for all Washingtonians. In the summer of 2025, we asked Washington Healthplanfinder customers about what it means to them to have health insurance and how losing enhanced premium tax credits will affect their lives and families.

Customers generously shared their stories about what having affordable health insurance means to them as business owners, caregivers, community members and older adults navigating life between retirement and Medicare. Ultimately, we learned Washington Healthplanfinder is a lifeline to care for many Washingtonians. They shared the expiration of ePTCs is frightening and could have devastating effects on their health and well-being.  

In Washington state, ePTCs have led to:  

• Record enrollment in qualified health plans;  

• Historically low uninsured rates; and

• Increased affordability, especially for older Washingtonians and rural residents. 

ePTCs are critical to ensuring health insurance is accessible and affordable in Washington state. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 temporarily enhanced the federally funded enhanced premium tax credits. If Congress does not reauthorize enhanced premium tax credits before the end of 2025, Washingtonians will face steep premium increases and many will forgo coverage.  

Read the stories from our customers highlighting the importance of ePTCs.