Lower Premiums Under the American Rescue Plan Act and Washington’s Cascade Care Bill

Under the new American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Washingtonians will find that the cost of their health insurance that is purchased on the Health Benefit Exchange, is temporarily more affordable. For the next two years, ARPA allows those with income up to 150% of federal poverty to get silver plans at $0 premiums and with reduced deductibles, for those with income up to 400% of federal poverty there are increased premium subsidies, and for those with income above 400% of federal poverty they are newly eligible for premium subsidies. There are also enhanced subsidies for those who are recently unemployed, and temporary COBRA premium subsidies for 2021. Washingtonians can find out if they qualify by checking options on Washington Healthplanfinder (WAhealthplanfinder.org) or contact an Exchange certified Navigator, enrollment center, or the Customer Support Center (1-855-923-4633). In 2023, Washington state has enacted a new subsidy program for those with income up to 250% of poverty, is otherwise ineligible for Medicare or Medicaid, and applies all applicable federal tax credits. These are positive steps in ensuring that Washingtonians have access to affordable health coverage. (ShirleyP@wsha.org)