Community Health Options Explains 2027 Individual Rates
NEW GLOUCESTER, Maine, July 17, 2026 -- Community Health Options has submitted 2027 rate increases ranging from 12 percent to 33.2 percent to the Maine Bureau of Insurance as part of its annual filing of new plans and rates.
For the company's Individual and Family Members, whether their premiums change--or by how much--depends on several factors. The final monthly premium is based on age, where Members live and which plan they choose. Members may also be eligible to receive Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC) that would lower the premium cost.
The proposed rates are pending state and federal regulatory approval, likely by September. Members will receive a rate filing notice in mid-July and once rates are approved, they'll receive a personalized renewal notice in October.
Why rates are increasing
Community Health Options is facing the same economic pressures being felt across the healthcare system--by providers, patients and health plans alike. These factors driving premium increases include:
- Escalating costs for medical services and prescription medications
- Rising national inflation
- Changing enrollment trends following the expiration of enhanced federal tax credits
- Ongoing regulatory changes that raise costs for health plan operations
In a company statement, Community Health Options said, “We know rising rates will have a significant impact on our Members’ households and we do not take it lightly. As a Maine-based nonprofit, we answer to our Members and never to shareholders. We make every decision and spend every premium dollar to enhance access to care, administer plans and keep a strong provider network. Our team is ready to help Members explore options that fit their needs.”
Members have the right to ask the Maine Bureau of Insurance to hold a public hearing on the proposed increase. Requests should be made in writing and mailed to the Maine Bureau of Insurance, 34 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333.
Pending regulatory approval, new rates will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
- July 20: Community Health Options begins mailing state-required rate filing notices to Members
- September: Community Health Options receives final rate approval from Maine's Bureau of Insurance and the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- Early October: Members receive a personalized renewal letter with 2027 premium and plan information
- Oct. 15: Community Health Options opens its 2027 plan preview online at healthoptions.org
- Nov. 1: Open Enrollment begins
- Jan. 15, 2027: Open Enrollment ends
Members with questions about their plans or benefits should call Member Services team at (855) 624-6463.
Members of the news media should email Community Health Options at mediainquiries@healthoptions.org.