Open enrollment is mandatory this October for Public Employees’ Benefits Board (PEBB) members. Open enrollment is the annual period when benefits-eligible employees can make changes to their benefits for the next calendar year. Unlike last year, open enrollment will be mandatory this year.
In October, benefits-eligible faculty, staff and officers of administration need to log in to the PEBB Benefit Management System to complete their open enrollment. Links to instructions and other resources are available on the Human Resources website.
If you do not take action during open enrollment:
- Your current medical, dental and vision coverages will stay the same for 2026. You won’t be able to change them after open enrollment.
- PEBB surcharges for tobacco use and double coverage will be deducted from your paycheck throughout 2026.
- You will not be able to have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) even if you have one this year.
- If you currently opt out of medical coverage, your opt-out benefits will end Dec. 31, 2025.
PEBB has announced some changes for the 2026 plan year, including:
- The Health Engagement Model (HEM) will end with the 2025 plan year. This means the $17.50 per month incentive will end, and the annual health assessment and health actions will no longer be required.
- Providence and Moda members will have a new mandatory prescription drug program that provides 90-day supplies of daily medications from a mail-order or preferred pharmacy.
- Providence and Moda members will have access to Garner, a tool to reimburse members for deductibles and copays to eligible high-quality providers, up to a yearly maximum.
For more information from PEBB about 2026 benefits, visit their Enrollment and Benefits page, which will be updated throughout the open enrollment season.