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2026 Open Enrollment Oct. 30 - Nov. 21

Key Takeaways

  • 2026 Open Enrollment begins Oct. 30 – Nov. 21, 2025
  • New plan option, HealthSavings+ is being launched
  • Minimizing impacts of health-care cost increases remains a top priority
  • UC will increase its contribution to medical premiums


Open Enrollment for health benefits begins Thursday, October 30, 2025, and there is essential information about the University of California’s (UC) medical plan costs for 2026 you need to know. Review the detailed information regarding important changes in UC Health Benefits for 2026 that has been released in a message from Systemwide Human Resources Vice President Cheryl Lloyd to the UC community.

Key Changes to UC Benefits

  • HealthSavings+ is replacing CORE and UC Health Savings Plan, with new benefits and costs. HealthSavings+ will be UC’s lowest premium medical plan, and it includes a Health Savings Account (HSA) that lets you set aside money for health expenses while lowering your taxable income.
  • Employee premiums will be more equitable and predictable. Premiums for represented employees will be implemented consistent with applicable collective bargaining agreements and the law.


Resources to Help You Choose

  • Visit the 2026 Open Enrollment website to learn all about HealthSavings+ and how it compares to UC’s other medical plans. The site will fully launch Oct. 27, 2025.
  • ALEX offers a customized comparison of medical plan premiums, out-of-pocket costs and in-network providers. Information for 2026 will be available in ALEX by October 29, 2025.

UC’s Contribution
In 2026, UC will invest an additional $260 million in medical benefits — a 9.5% increase and the largest boost in the past 15 years. This brings UC’s total investment to $3 billion, covering 83% of medical premium costs while continuing to pay 100% of dental and vision premiums. While these decisions will help keep the average employee premium increases low, the impact to you will depend on the plan you choose.

Stay Informed
Information will help you make the best decisions for you and your family. Check out the dedicated 2026 Open Enrollment website, launching October 27, 2025, for tools and resources to help you navigate the changes in UC Health Benefits. In addition, an Open Enrollment Checklist and Staff Booklet are also available for employees to use.