October 2026 Newsletter
A monthly newsletter brought to you by the Idaho Department of Insurance
Idaho Department of Insurance Appointed Rehabilitator for Idaho School Benefit Trust
The Idaho Department of Insurance has been appointed the rehabilitator for the Idaho School Benefit Trust, taking important steps to protect schools and their employees. The Department will oversee the Trust’s operations throughout the rehabilitation process to ensure continuity of coverage and responsible management.
Read the full press release here
Bulletin No. 26-16—Health Care Cost Drivers Data Call
On October 5, 2026, the Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) issued Bulletin 26-16 announcing a data call requiring health insurers to submit detailed information on premiums, enrollment, administrative expenses, and claims for calendar years 2022–2025. The data collection effort, authorized under Idaho Code §§ 41-219 and 41-247, is designed to deepen understanding of health care cost trends and underlying cost drivers in Idaho’s commercial health insurance market.
DOI Releases Final 2027 Premium Rates for Individual and Small Group Health Plans
The Department has finalized 2027 premium rates for individual and small group health insurance plans. On average, premiums will increase by 12% in the individual market and 12% in the small group market. Each carrier’s detailed justification for its 2027 rate changes is available on the Department’s website: https://doi.idaho.gov/consumer/RateReview/.
Medicare Open Enrollment Begins October 15
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026, and the Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) is encouraging Medicare beneficiaries to take time this season to review their coverage and evaluate whether their current plan still meets their needs.
Protect Yourself From Improper Marketing
The open enrollment period can be a time when improper marketing can make things confusing for seniors and healthcare providers. Learn more about how to protect themselves during 2026 Medicare Open Enrollment.
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Workers’ Compensation Rates to Drop Again in 2027
DOI has reviewed and accepted a filing from the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) that will result in an overall average workers’ compensation rate decrease of 0.1%, effective January 1, 2027. While modest, the reduction continues Idaho’s long-term trend of stable and declining workers’ compensation costs for employers.
Fraud Watch: Three Cases Announced in October
This month, the Idaho Department of Insurance announced three insurance fraud cases, underscoring the Department’s ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of Idaho’s insurance marketplace. These cases highlight the important work of the DOI Fraud Unit and its partnerships with law enforcement and prosecutors across the state. Insurance fraud drives up costs for everyone, and the DOI remains dedicated to investigating fraud and holding offenders accountable.
DOI Fraud Unit Exposes Fake Invoice in Fire Claim
Insurance Fraud Investigation Leads to Conviction of Athol Man
Kuna Man Commits Fraud: Claimed Boat He Never Owned
Congratulations on 20 Years of Public Service!
We’re honored to celebrate State Fire Marshal Knute Sandahl as he marks an incredible 20 years of dedicated service to the people of Idaho. His commitment, leadership, and steady presence have made a lasting impact on communities across the state. We are truly grateful for all he does.
Dave Mulder Award for Excellence in Customer Service
Congratulations to Eric Fletcher, Company Activities Bureau Chief and Chief Examiner for the Department of Insurance, for receiving the Dave Mulder Award for Excellence in Customer Service.
This award recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication to serving Idahoans — qualities Eric Fletcher embodies daily. His leadership and commitment strengthen our department and positively impact the consumers and companies we support.
Congratulations, Eric, on this well‑deserved honor. Thank you for all you do for the Department of Insurance and the people of Idaho!
PBM Oversight (as of October 26, 2026)
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About Idaho Department of Insurance
The mission of the Department of Insurance is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. Visit its website at https://doi.idaho.gov/.
