Open enrollment success does not start in the fall. It grows as employees understand their benefits, make informed decisions, and stay engaged with resources that support their health and financial well-being.
Brokers play a critical role in helping employers educate their workforce. With rising health care costs and ongoing financial stress heading into 2026, employees need clear, simple guidance throughout the year. These 10 tips can help employees stay informed, so they walk into next year’s open enrollment with confidence.
Even with stable coverage, unexpected expenses — urgent care, injuries, sudden illness — add up. Tracking these costs helps employees see the value of supplemental plans that provide cash benefits during emergencies.
Annual physicals, dental cleanings, vision exams, and screenings save money and support long-term health. Staying current makes next year’s plan decisions easier.
Many employees may not be familiar with how supplemental insurance works. Throughout the year, help them learn the basics:
Carrier portals make it easier to file claims, check coverage, and access educational resources. Familiarity now prevents stress later and builds confidence in benefits.
Disability insurance is often one of the most overlooked benefits, yet it protects an employee’s most important asset: their income. Assess monthly expenses and savings to determine if additional coverage is needed.
Don’t wait for open enrollment. Clarify accident claims, critical illness qualifications, or life insurance needs throughout the year to avoid confusion.
Marriage, a new baby, dependents aging out, or major financial changes can affect protection needs. Keep HR informed to make sure coverage stays aligned.
Unexpected health events can strain budgets. Supplemental products — accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity — help families stay financially stable.
Benefit details often get overlooked. Read HR messages, bookmark resources, and attend webinars to stay informed year-round.
Review what worked and what didn’t while it’s fresh. Did coverage meet needs? Were there surprise costs? These insights lead to smarter decisions next year.
A successful open enrollment season for supplemental benefits starts well before employees make their elections. When brokers guide employees to understand their coverage, assess financial risks, and recognize the value of supplemental products, they help build a workforce that is informed, prepared, and protected. Education and decision support are at the heart of your value proposition — so start early, keep messaging simple, and reinforce it across multiple channels. The foundation for next year’s open enrollment is built in Q4 of this year.
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