Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Health insurance - How can I get health insurance?

Different health insurance plans are available based on your needs and how much you want to pay. Before you buy a health insurance plan, check out all of your options, including whether or not you qualify for low- or no-cost health care.

Ways to get health insurance


From your employer

Employers are not required to provide health insurance to their employees. However, if they do offer it, they'll provide you with plan information.

Some health plans only cover employees and others cover their families, too - including domestic partners. Most employees pay at least a portion of the premium and some pay the entire premium.

If you're laid off, you may be eligible to continue your insurance through COBRA. Learn more

Buy directly from an insurance company

If your employer doesn't provider health insurance and you don't qualify for Medicare, you may have to buy it on your own (also call an individual plan) for you and/or your family. Most people applying for individual coverage must take a health questionnaire. If you don't pass the questionnaire your only option is to buy a plan from the Washington State Health Insurance Pool (WSHIP). Learn more

 

Join an association

Some associations provide health benefits to their members.

 

Enroll in Medicare

Medicare is a federal insurance program for people:

  • Age 65 or older
  • Under age 65 with certain disabilities
  • Of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant)

Learn more about Medicare.

 

What if I can't afford health insurance?

If you're shopping for coverage on your own, you may qualify for a low- or no-cost program. Learn more about other options, including direct practices and discount plans.

Some programs help people with disabilities or who have limited income and assets. Learn more



Need more help? Call our FREE Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900
or Email us at cap@oic.wa.gov.

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