Employers are planning to shift more health care costs to workers in 2026, with over half of companies adjusting their health insurance offerings to increase employees' share of the cost. Rising health care expenses and a tight labor market have led to this decision, with companies expecting a nearly 6% increase in health benefit expenses this year. Employers are also focusing on providing mental health services for staff and offering child care and elder care benefits as more employees return to the office. Details about health care benefits for the coming year will be communicated during the annual open enrollment period in the fall.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/16/economy/health-care-costs-employees-2026