Important Updates

The University of Alabama strives to create a nationally competitive, customizable benefits package to attract and support our employees as the state’s flagship research institution, while ensuring that decisions align with overall financial capacity and comply with federal regulations.

What is Benefits Open Enrollment? An annual opportunity for benefits-eligible employees to enroll in or make changes to benefits for the upcoming calendar year. Because UA’s benefits are offered through a Section 125 Cafeteria Plan, most premiums are paid on a pre-tax basis. To maintain this tax-advantaged status, federal regulations require UA employees to make elections during Open Enrollment, with changes taking effect prospectively and generally remaining irrevocable for the upcoming year (Jan. 1 – Dec. 31, 2027).

Why is Benefits Open Enrollment important? This is the only time you are eligible to make benefit changes unless you experience a qualifying life event (QLE), such as a family or employment change. Some benefits, like Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), require re-enrollment if you wish to continue them in 2027. Enrollment exceptions cannot be granted outside these IRS-approved events, as doing so could jeopardize the tax-favored status of UA’s benefits program.

Will there be changes to insurance plans and programs in 2027? Yes, changes are expected for some plans and programs next year. Watch this page for updates so that you can make informed decisions during Benefits Open Enrollment. We’ll share this information through multiple channels, including email, printed materials, digital signage, and live presentations. We appreciate your attention to these communications and encourage you to participate in available sessions.