OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington residents could see a major spike in the cost of their health insurance next year.

The Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner said health insurers are requesting an average rate change of just over 22% for the individual market in 2027.

That’s similar to this year’s increase of 21% that was proposed by the insurance companies.

The insurance commissioner approved nearly the entire request last year, saying it’s required by state law to accept it if insurers prove they need the rate change.

The commissioner’s office is reviewing this latest proposal and will decide on a final rate in September before open enrollment begins in November.

The individual market is used by more than 280,000 state residents who don’t receive health insurance through their employer. According to the commissioner’s office, that number was down 13% from 2025 after Congress didn’t renew the Enhanced Advanced Premium Tax credits.