Individual & family health insurance

Choose coverage around your life.

Between jobs, self-employed, retiring before Medicare or buying coverage for your family? Compare the plans available where you live, with your doctors, prescriptions and budget in mind.

Choose your route

Shop health coverage with or without the exchange

For provider searches, choose the exact plan network and service area, then confirm with the carrier and provider before enrolling. Federal premium tax credits are available through the Marketplace, not through an off-exchange purchase. Check assistance eligibility before choosing a direct carrier plan. County, plan year and enrollment rules affect availability.

See the full picture

The lowest premium is only one part of the decision

Four checks before choosing a health plan
PriorityWhat to compareWhy it matters
Your care teamWhat to compareCheck the exact plan networkWhy it mattersSearch doctors, hospitals and specialists; confirm with both the insurer and provider before enrolling.
Your prescriptionsWhat to compareCheck more than the drug nameWhy it mattersReview the formulary, drug tier, pharmacy network and any prior authorization or quantity limits.
Your yearly budgetWhat to comparePremium + care costsWhy it mattersCompare the deductible, copays, coinsurance and covered in-network out-of-pocket limit, alongside the monthly premium.
Your householdWhat to compareCheck financial help firstWhy it mattersIncome, tax household, access to other coverage and other eligibility rules can affect available assistance.

Know the timing

When you can enroll

Annual enrollment

November 1–January 15

The currently published 2027 enrollment window is November 1, 2026–January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 31 for January 1 coverage; January 1–15 selections generally begin February 1.

A change in your life

Check special enrollment

Losing qualifying coverage, having a baby or certain other events may open a special enrollment period. Many deadlines are 60 days from the event; eligibility, documentation and start dates vary.

Available year-round

Apple Health applications

You can apply for Washington Apple Health at any time. Other special enrollment opportunities may also be available based on your circumstances.

Confirm your eligibility, deadline and effective date with Washington Healthplanfinder or the carrier before ending existing coverage.

Prepare for a review

Bring the details that make a comparison useful

Start with the people who need coverage, your ZIP code and the date your current plan ends. If you want to check financial help, have an estimate of your household income and information about any employer coverage available.

We can help you understand plan differences and your next enrollment steps.

Your comparison checklist

  • Doctors, hospitals and specialists you want to keep
  • Prescription names, dosages and preferred pharmacy
  • Current coverage and any qualifying-event dates
  • Expected visits, treatment and a monthly budget

Questions we hear

Individual health coverage, explained

What is the difference between on-exchange and off-exchange?

On-exchange coverage is purchased through Washington Healthplanfinder, where eligible applicants can receive financial assistance. Off-exchange plans are purchased outside the Marketplace. The available plans and net costs may differ, so check both the coverage and any assistance you would give up.

Does a Gold plan always cost more than Silver?

No. Metal categories describe how covered costs are shared across a standard population; they do not rank quality or guarantee premium order. Compare actual prices and benefits. Income-based cost-sharing reductions generally require a Silver Marketplace plan.

Can I keep my doctor?

That depends on the exact network. Provider directories can change. Verify your provider and facility with the plan and the office before enrolling.

What if my employer offers coverage?

You may still compare individual options, but access to employer coverage can affect financial assistance. The affordability and eligibility review can differ for an employee and family members.

Do I need separate dental and vision?

Routine adult dental and vision may not be included in your medical plan. Compare dental and vision quote options and review any benefits already included in your coverage.

Keep exploring

More individual coverage

Medical

Individual & family health

Compare networks, prescriptions and the total cost of care.

Explore health coverage

Dental & vision

Choose coverage for everyday care

Find dental and vision quote links and questions to ask.

Explore dental & vision

Want a second set of eyes?

We can help compare your options and explain what to check before you enroll.

Coverage details vary by plan. Review the policy, benefit summary, network and effective date before enrolling. Information reviewed September 19, 2026.

Official resources: Enrollment and special enrollmentCurrent federal changes and enrollment dates2027 coverage start datesCost-sharing reductionsSteps to apply