Benefits Open Enrollment 2026: The 9-Minute Checklist

Before you start (2 minutes)

• Gather your previous year's medical expenses — number of doctor visits, medications, procedures
• Note any planned expenses for next year: surgery, pregnancy, major dental work
• Find last year's benefits elections for comparison

Health plan selection (3 minutes)

• Compare total cost: premium + estimated out-of-pocket based on your typical usage, not just the monthly premium
• Check if your current doctors are in-network on any plan you're considering
• If considering a high-deductible plan, check if it qualifies as an HDHP (2026: $1,650+ individual deductible)
• If it's an HDHP, you can open or continue an HSA — this changes the math significantly

Spending accounts (2 minutes)

• HSA: If eligible, contribute at least enough to cover your expected deductible. Ideally contribute the maximum ($4,300 individual / $8,550 family for 2026).
• FSA: If you have one, estimate your expected medical expenses for the year. Don't over-contribute — the use-it-or-lose-it rule is real.
• Dependent Care FSA: If you have kids in daycare, camp, or after-school care, this is almost always worth maxing out ($5,000/year tax-free).
• Commuter FSA: If you commute, elect up to $315/month for transit and $315/month for parking.

Other benefits (2 minutes)

• Confirm your 401k contribution is at least enough to capture the full employer match
• Review dental plan options if dental work is planned
• Update life insurance coverage if family status changed
• Update beneficiary designations if needed