What's New and Changing for 2026
Delivering More Value Through Enhanced Medical Benefits
- You'll see real savings this year—AEP is increasing its contribution to your health coverage, meaning lower costs for you.
- 3 new Medical Plan options will be available in 2026:
Classic PPO Plan
The new Classic PPO Plan offers a lower deductible and out-of-pocket maximum, with copays for provider visits. For non-maintenance prescription drugs, you'll be responsible for 20% of the cost, with no deductible, until you meet your out-of-pocket maximum.
HSA Premium Plan
The HSA Premium Plan replaces the HSA Plus Plan with a lower deductible, lower out-of-pocket maximum and lower monthly employee contributions.
HSA Value Plan
The HSA Value Plan replaces the HSA Basic Plan. This Plan features a $0 employee-only contribution rate. Contributions for dependent coverage are over 50% lower than the current HSA Basic Plan.
HRA Plan
Enrollment in the HRA Plan for 2026 is limited to those currently enrolled in the Plan. Additionally, there will be no Plan design changes or increases to employee contribution rates.
New Dental Plans, More Reasons to Smile
- 2 new Dental Plan options will be available in 2026, both offering the broad Aetna Dental PPO network:
Base Plan
The Base Plan provides coverage similar to the current PPO Plan, has lower employee contributions, but does not include orthodontia coverage.
Buy-Up Plan
The Buy-Up Plan provides expanded benefits, including orthodontia coverage for both adults and children with a higher lifetime maximum of $2,500.
Vision Plan Update
- The Vision Plan in-network frame allowance/contact lens coverage will increase from $155 to $165.
Better Benefits Start Here - Discover what's new for 2026!
Join us for a live session where we’ll walk through key updates to your 2026 benefits. We’ll cover what’s changing, why it matters, and how to choose the best options for you and your family.
Topics include:
- New Medical and Dental Plan options
- Simplified Plan choices and lower employee contributions
- Enhanced fertility benefits
- What’s staying the same—and what’s going away
- Where to find more information and support
You’ll also have a chance to ask questions and hear directly from our Benefits team.
Get Ready to Win!
Enter to Win Prizes throughout this 2026 Annual Enrollment Benefits eGuide
As you review this year's Annual Enrollment Benefits eGuide, be on the lookout for this electric plug icon. Click on the image, answer the question (the answer will be found in the eGuide), and fill out the form to be entered to win these prizes:
- $25 Amazon Gift Cards
- Stanley Tumbler & Notebook
- Bluetooth Speaker
- Yoga Mat
- Igloo Lunch Cooler
- Resistance Band
- $200 for FitBit
- and MORE!
This guide is not intended to be a Plan document, Summary Plan Description, or required notice with respect to any of the Plans mentioned. AEP reserves the right to modify, amend, suspend, or terminate the Plans at any time. Refer to the applicable Plan document if you have any questions relating to a specific Plan or benefit.