Insurers need our permission to set or change rates for individual and small group health plans (for one to 50 employees) in Washington state. They can't change rates more than once a year unless a law requires them to provide a new health benefit.

Factors that affect premiums

How much you pay for your premium depends on:

  • Your age and the age of any family members in your plan.
  • Your family size.
  • Whether or not you smoke.
  • Where you live.
  • The type of plan you choose.

Why premiums increase

Rates for individual and small group health plans are based on all the claims everyone files. This is why your premium may go up even if you haven't filed a claim. Rising costs for medical care can also increase rates.

For more information, learn how we review health rates.

Related topics

Learn how health insurance works

Health insurance helps pay your medical bills when you seek care. Knowing what your options are can help save you time, money and frustration.

Individuals & families

If you don’t have health insurance through an employer, you can buy an individual health plan during the annual open enrollment period.

How health insurance works

Learn about some of your most important health insurance rights and protections in Washington state.