Health carrier rate development components (R 2025-02)

The federal government funded enhanced premium tax credits that lowered health insurance costs for certain Washington consumers - but these tax credits expired on December 31, 2025. Beginning January 1, 2026, this expiration means that health insurance costs are higher for many consumers who purchase health plans through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange.

In 2025, we adopted emergency rules to keep health plans more affordable for these consumers in 2026. Beginning in 2027, this final rule continues this policy to preserve the affordability of health insurance for consumers. The final rule also ensures that affected entities understand rate development requirements and preserves healthy competition among health insurers. We amended Chapter 284-43 WAC to accomplish this goal.