Nonprofit Guide to Open Enrollment: Setting Up for 2026

For many nonprofits, open enrollment season can feel like a whirlwind. There are forms to manage, deadlines to track, and employees with lots of questions. But it is also an opportunity. Open enrollment gives you a chance to remind your staff that their wellbeing matters and that your organization is committed to supporting them. With 2026 right around the corner, now is the time to get set up for success.

Why it matters

Nonprofits face a unique challenge when it comes to benefits. Budgets are often tight, yet employees still need access to good healthcare and coverage that supports their families. Offering the right benefits is not only about compliance, it is about taking care of the people who keep your mission moving. A clear and supportive enrollment process shows staff that you value them as much as the communities you serve.

Start the conversation early

Most of the stress around open enrollment comes from confusion. People want to make the right choices, but the language of insurance can feel overwhelming. Try breaking things down into plain language, and give staff plenty of time to review their options. A simple timeline with key dates, a short explainer email, or even an informal Q&A session can go a long way toward making people feel confident.

Take stock of what you’re offering

Open enrollment is also a good moment to step back and ask: are our benefits still working for our staff? Maybe usage reports show that employees value dental and vision, or maybe mental health resources are becoming a higher priority. Nonprofits do not always have room for big changes, but even small adjustments, like adding telehealth support or exploring new plan designs, can have a real impact.

Lean on experts

If your team is small, it can help to have outside support. A broker or advisor who knows the nonprofit sector can save you time and frustration by comparing plans, helping you understand costs, and guiding you through changes. The right partner makes open enrollment less of a chore and more of a chance to improve what you offer.

Make it simple to enroll

Think about the experience from your employees’ point of view. Is the enrollment process easy to follow? If you use an online system, does it clearly show costs and choices? If not, can you provide worksheets, step-by-step instructions, or even set aside office hours for people who need help? The easier you make it, the less likely you are to face last-minute problems.

Keep benefits visible all year

Once enrollment ends, do not let benefits fade into the background. A quick reminder about preventive care, wellness resources, or EAP services during the year helps staff actually use what is available. When next year’s enrollment comes around, they will be more familiar with what works for them and less stressed about making decisions.

Looking ahead to 2026

Preparation is everything. Clear communication, a thoughtful look at your current offerings, and the right support system will make 2026 open enrollment smoother for both you and your staff. Most importantly, it shows your employees that they are more than just a line in the budget. They are people you care about, and making benefits accessible is one of the best ways to demonstrate that care.

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