Preliminary Washington Healthplanfinder open enrollment numbers released
More customers expected to drop coverage due to higher premiums and reductions in federal tax credits
Olympia, Wash. – Washington Health Benefit Exchange released its preview report outlining preliminary data and outcomes from open enrollment for 2026, which were sharply impacted by federal changes and mandates. While more than 290,000 Washingtonians selected or were automatically reenrolled into a qualified health plan (QHP) during open enrollment, this early number provides an incomplete picture. Final numbers will show significantly lower numbers as customers choose whether to pay their initial monthly premiums. Come spring, a reduction of 5–10% of current counts due to higher premiums is expected.
In 2025, there was a 7% decrease from last year’s preview report to the final numbers a few months later of 309,000 to 287,000. At that time, the enhanced premium tax credits (ePTCs) had not yet expired.
Federal policy changes have exacerbated an existing health care affordability crisis in Washington state. Nearly 39,000 fewer customers received advance premium tax credits during this open enrollment than last year. With the passage of H.R. 1 and the expiration of federal enhanced premium tax credits, many customers experienced a doubling or tripling of their premiums this year and faced hard decisions about whether or not to stay covered. Mitigation efforts — including Cascade Care Savings, the state premium assistance program, and premium alignment — have helped to reduce the effect of federal changes.
About Washington HealthplanfinderTM
Washington HealthplanfinderTM is an online marketplace for individuals and families in Washington to compare and enroll in health insurance coverage and gain access to tax credits, reduced cost sharing and public programs such as Medicaid. Next open enrollment for Washington Healthplanfinder begins Nov. 1, 2026. Enrollment reports and data are available from Washington Health Benefit Exchange.
About Washington Apple Health
In Washington, Apple Health (also known as Medicaid) is available to residents based on income, family size, age, and other factors. Coverage for adults, parents/caretakers, children, and pregnant individuals is managed through Washington Healthplanfinder. Apple Health coverage includes preventive care, mental health, substance use disorder treatment, dental, vision, and many other services. Learn more at .