For Immediate Release: December 8, 2025

Washingtonians have until Dec. 15 to sign up for health and dental coverage that starts Jan. 1

Amid tax credit uncertainty, many Washingtonians are still finding their health insurance for 2026 through Washington Healthplanfinder

OLYMPIA, Wash. – During the first month of open enrollment for 2026, more than 268,000 Washingtonians used Washington Healthplanfinder to shop, compare and sign up for health and dental insurance. Even though enhanced premium tax credits for next year may not be extended through Congress, many customers can still find plans with state and federal savings.

Open enrollment is currently underway for 2026, people who sign up by Dec. 15 will have coverage that starts on Jan. 1.  Everyone who signs up between Dec. 16 and Jan. 15 will have plans that begin on Feb. 1. At wahealthplanfinder.org, Washingtonians can shop for themselves or find help from a trusted resource in their community. Premium savings may be available to help make monthly costs more affordable.

“Ensuring all Washingtonians have access to affordable quality health care is our mission. Customers should not wait to see if Congress takes action on enhanced premium tax credits. Without Congressional action, these enhanced tax credits will go away. The good news is that we have been able to make some changes for 2026 to help reduce people’s monthly premium costs,” Washington Health Benefit Exchange CEO Ingrid Ulrey said. “Cascade Care Savings and plans continue to be one of our best tools to support Washingtonians. There is still time to get health and dental insurance for 2026. We encourage people not to wait, and come explore options on Washington Healthplanfinder.”

 

# # #

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 began Nov. 1, 2025. 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 HealthplanfinderApple Health coverage includes preventive care, mental health, substance use disorder treatment, dental, vision, and many other services. Learn more at hca.wa.gov/apple-health.