Companies participating in New Hampshire’s health insurance market might need to change their rates for next year as the result of a flurry of federal pullbacks and changes as well as new state laws.
The New Hampshire Insurance Department raised that possibility in a letter urging carriers to review and revise their 2026 premium rate filings “in light of emerging policy and economic developments since initial submissions were made in June.”
The Department cited several developments that might warrant revised filings, including the likely end of federal enhanced advanced premium tax credits, the continued absence of federal cost-sharing reduction reimbursements and the legislative status of state bills with implications for the individual market.
“Now, with multiple uncertainties surfacing after the original rate submissions, it is essential that final rates reflect the latest data and not outdated assumptions. This approach ensures Granite Staters remain protected from unnecessary cost increases,” Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt said in a release.
“The NHID remains committed to upholding market affordability while ensuring rates are actuarially sound and based on the actual experience in New Hampshire,” said Deputy Insurance Commissioner Keith Nyhan. “Granite Staters deserve premiums that reflect their local market, not trends imported from other states.”
The full letter to carriers can be viewed at https://mm.nh.gov/files/uploads/nhid/documents/nhid-2026-rate-filings-letter.pdf.
