Tips to Make the Most of Benefits Open Enrollment

Tuesday

Open enrollment is just around the corner from Oct. 20-Nov. 7. 
Most benefits will automatically roll over to 2026. However, action is required for two items: 

  • Current Hartford dependent life insurance enrollees must re-elect coverage with Unum.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts require annual re-enrollment. 

Key improvements for 2026: 

  • New PPO Plan replaces Triple Choice with no in-network deductible and no provider tiers
  • Life and disability insurance premiums are decreasing
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) contribution limits have increased: Health Care FSAs allow up to $3,400 (with $660 rollover) and Dependent Care FSAs allow up to $7,500
  • Due to vendor changes, employees can elect a greater level of life insurance coverage this year. This level of choice is normally only available to new hires. After this enrollment period, increases will return to the standard, more restricted coverage increase limits. 

Need help? Attend a Benefits Expo: 
Virtual Expo: Oct. 16, 9-10:30 a.m.
In-Person Expo: Oct. 30, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Student Union Memorial Center, Grand Ballroom

Before the Nov. 7 enrollment deadline: 

  • Review your current coverage by visiting the University Benefits tile in UAccess
  • Review and update your beneficiaries
  • Consider changes to life insurance coverage if you've had major life changes
  • Re-enroll or elect an FSA, if applicable

Visit the Open Enrollment webpage to see what's new for 2026