Open Enrollment is the annual period when people can sign up for, change, or renew their individual and family health insurance coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder for the upcoming year.
Whether you’re already enrolled in an Individual & Family plan or shopping for coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder (wahealthplanfinder.org) for the first time, here are three things to know as you prepare for 2027 coverage.
Key dates
Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage runs from November 1 through January 15.
- Your coverage will begin on January 1, 2027, if you sign up for a plan by December 31, 2026.
- Your coverage will begin on February 1, 2027, if you sign up for a plan January 1 – January 15.
How to compare plan options
Plans come in three metal levels based on how you and your insurer share costs: Gold (Complete Gold and Vital Gold), Silver, and Bronze. In general, Bronze plans have lower monthly premiums and higher out-of-pocket costs, while Gold plans have higher monthly premiums and lower out-of-pocket costs. Silver plans fall in between.
When shopping for coverage, it’s important to compare the full picture. Consider:
- Monthly premium costs – What you pay each month for keeping coverage.
- Deductibles and out-of-pocket costs – What you pay for covered services before and after insurance starts to pay.
- Provider network – Make sure the doctors and hospitals you go to are included.
- Extra benefits and services – Look for what the plan offers in addition to medical coverage.
- Available savings programs – See if you qualify for financial assistance that helps reduce your overall costs.
Many Washington residents qualify for financial help. If you qualify, federal premium tax credits and state Cascade Care Savings can significantly lower your monthly insurance bill.
When you enter your information into Washington Healthplanfinder, the system checks your eligibility, estimates costs and any savings, and lets you compare plans side by side.
Community Health Plan of Washington (CHPW) offers Individual & Family Cascade Select plans built around Community Health Centers as your primary source of care.
If you have questions or want help exploring options, call our Washington-based Enrollment team at 1-866-907-1906opens phone dialer (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or visit our Compare Plans webpage for more information.
How to use your coverage
Once you’re enrolled, make the most of your benefits and get care when you need it. Preventive care can help you stay healthy and identify potential health issues before they become more serious.
Don’t forget to:
- Schedule annual checkups with your Primary Care Provider (PCP).
- Stay up to date on recommended screenings and vaccines.
- Take advantage of virtual care options when appropriate.
All plans purchased through Washington Healthplanfinder, including CHPW Cascade Select plans, cover preventive care services such as recommended vaccines and screenings at no out-of-pocket cost to you when you see an in-network provider.
Did you know?
All CHPW Cascade Select plans also offer at no additional cost:
- 24/7 CHPW Virtual Care: $0 copay for Urgent Care visits with a doctor by phone or video.
- MemberFirst™ Rewards: Earn gift cards for completing key preventive screenings.
- Personalized Care Management: Get one-on-one support to help you manage your health.
Ready for Open Enrollment?
We hope these tips help you choose a plan that best fits your needs and budget. By understanding your options, exploring available financial assistance, and making the most of your benefits, you can start the new year with coverage that works for you.
And with health insurance in place, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re prepared for the care you need when you need it.
Learn more:
- Choosing Health Insurance: Which Individual & Family Plan Is Best for You?
- Have new health insurance? Here’s how to get started.
- What is Washington Healthplanfinder and how do you navigate it?
- What is preventive care? Why is it important?
- Your guide to virtual care – When to use it and what to expect
