STATE FUNDING FOR CASCADE CARE HEALTH INSURANCE SUBSIDIES IS RUNNING OUT DEC 18TH
- SMASH STAFF
- Dec 16, 2024
- 3 min read
The clock is ticking, and Washington musicians relying on affordable Cascade Care health insurance plans through the Washington Health Benefits Exchange must act fast. Due to unprecedented demand and budget limitations, the state funding that makes these plans affordable is quickly running dry for 2025. Now is the time if you haven’t locked in your coverage yet.
What’s Happening With Cascade Care Subsidies?
For years, Cascade Care Savings has helped reduce premium costs for Washingtonians purchasing insurance through the state exchange. This vital support ensures musicians, freelancers, and other creatives without employer-provided insurance can afford the care they need. But now, the state budget is stretched thin, and the funding pot for premium assistance is nearly empty. Without prompt enrollment, thousands could miss out on financial support for their 2025 health insurance plans.
Why Musicians Need To Pay Attention
Health insurance is more than a safety net—it’s a lifeline. As a musician, your body and mind are your most essential instruments, and access to affordable care keeps you in tune. The costs of going uninsured are steep: untreated injuries, mental health crises, and chronic conditions can derail your ability to perform, create, and thrive. Cascade Care subsidies make the difference between affordable premiums and coverage that feels out of reach. Missing out on this opportunity could leave you without essential support for the coming year.
Who’s Affected?
The funding gap primarily affects anyone purchasing health insurance through the Washington Health Benefits Exchange who depends on premium assistance.
This includes:
Musicians, freelancers, and small business owners.
Other creatives without employer-sponsored insurance.
Who’s Not Affected?
You're safe if you’re already enrolled in a Cascade Care Savings plan for 2025. Additionally, those with Apple Health (Medicaid), Medicare, or employer-provided insurance are unaffected. But if you’re unsure where you stand, now’s the time to check.
What You Need To Do Right Now
Enroll Or Update Your Coverage By December 18
To secure premium assistance for 2025, you must act before this critical deadline. Head to the Washington Health Benefits Exchange to sign up or confirm your enrollment.
Spread The Word
Musicians supporting musicians is how we keep the local music scene thriving. Even if you’re not affected, there’s a good chance someone in your circle relies on the exchange. Let them know about this urgent deadline—it could be the reminder they need to take action.
The Future Of Washington’s Music Community Depends On Your Well-Being
At SMASH, we believe health and creativity go hand in hand. Affordable healthcare is essential to keeping our community of musicians vibrant and thriving. The stakes are high, but taking action now can protect your health and secure your future.
Don’t let this moment pass you by—future you (and your audience) will thank you for staying healthy and strong. Visit the Washington Health Benefits Exchange today to get started. And remember, we’re here to help you navigate the process if you need extra support.
Together, We Can Build a Healthier Future for Music
Seattle’s musicians give so much to our community—now it’s our turn to give back. Your donation to SMASH provides local artists access to affordable healthcare, mental health resources, and vital support services, helping them thrive both on and off the stage. Together, we can ensure the music never stops.
When you make a tax-deductible gift to SMASH, you directly impact our capacity to serve current members, expand programs and services, and support even more musicians in our area.
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