Washington State is extending the current special enrollment period for purchasing healthcare insurance from May 15 through August 15, 2021. This aligns with the recent federal announcement extending the special enrollment period for those using the federal marketplace. This special enrollment period allows currently uninsured individuals, and people both on and off the Exchange, the opportunity to benefit from these new savings.
The recently passed American Rescue Plan Act significantly increases the amount of tax credits individuals who enroll through Washington Healthplanfinder will receive, which reduces their monthly premiums. The Act also extends tax credits to middle-income Washingtonians who previously were not eligible for assistance and provides additional tax credits to all customers who receive at least one week of unemployment compensation in 2021.
Beginning May 6, new customers who apply through Washington Healthplanfinder will be able to see the amount of increased tax credits available through the new Act. The exact amount premiums will go down depends on where an individual lives, their age, and their income.
Current customers already receiving tax credits should keep their current contact and income information – including unemployment income – up to date in Washington Healthplanfinder to ensure they receive the maximum available benefit. The majority of these customers will not need to take action to receive additional tax credits and will see changes reflected in their June premiums. Customers will receive notification from Washington Healthplanfinder in April if any additional information is needed.
Customers paying premiums over 8.5 percent of their annual income will be eligible for tax credits for the first time if they report their income information. These new tax credits will be reflected in June premiums.
Customers seeking coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder can contact an Exchange certified Broker, Navigator, enrollment center or the Customer Support Center between 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1-855-923-4633; TTY: 855-627-9604 to initiate coverage. Free help from local experts is accessible by visiting: https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/_content/find-expert-advice.html
Read more Frequently Asked Questions on the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.