Save the Date: Open Enrollment 2026

Open Enrollment is Oct 29 - Nov 20!

Resources: Help is Available:

• The Open Enrollment Benefits & Wellness Fair is on October 29th from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm.
• Utilize ALEX to walk you through benefit plans and options that are individualized to your needs.
• Staff/Faculty can visit the UC Net Open Enrollment Website once it goes live for details about 2027 changes and costs.
• The UC Merced Benefits Team is available to help you understand your options to make the best selections for you and your family.
  • Be sure to schedule a 1:1 Call-in Session if you have any specific questions to discuss.
  • Prefer to meet in person? Attend one of our On-Site Enrollment Sessions or our Medical Plan Overview Zoom Presentation.
  • We will also have two drop-in days for questions, one on campus and one at the DCC.
  • Additional information can be found on our Open Enrollment Resources Flyer.

Benefit Plans Available for Staff/Faculty Anytime

You can enroll in certain plans or make changes through UCPath all year long:

• Supplemental Life Insurance 
  • You can apply to enroll or increase your coverage under Supplemental Life Insurance at any time. Please note that a short-form Health Statement Questionnaire is required as part of the application to enroll.
• Voluntary Disability Insurance 
  • You can apply to enroll in the Voluntary Short-Term and/or Voluntary Long-Term Disability plans at any time. Please not that an Evidence of Insurability form is required as part of the application to enroll.
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • You can enroll or change your AD&D coverage at any time through UCPath.
• Pet Insurance 
  • You can enroll in pet insurance at any time and your coverage will be effective approximately 14 days after your application is approved by Nationwide.
• ScholarShare College Savings Plan
  • It's never too early or too late to learn about saving for college. ScholarShare 529 College Savings Plan is a state-sponsored, tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan that helps families and individuals save for the cost of higher education.