On the Pulse Report

2026 Insights on Employee
Benefits Trends

As 2026 approaches, employers face a benefits landscape defined by rising healthcare costs, evolving pay transparency requirements, and workforce expectations that continue to shift toward flexibility and holistic well-being. HR and benefits leaders are under increasing pressure to balance cost management with competitive, employee-centric programs that meet the needs of a changing workforce.

The 2026 On the Pulse Report offers a forward-looking view of the trends shaping employee benefits in the coming year. Drawing on insights from our national practice leaders, it breaks down what’s changing, why it matters, and how organizations can prepare. Each chapter highlights the strategies gaining traction in today’s environment, the challenges most urgently demanding HR attention, and the opportunities employers can seize to stay ahead.

Inside this report: 

• Managing Healthcare Costs with Data-Driven Insights
• Evaluating GLP-1 Drugs’ Impact on Pharmacy Spend
• Navigating Changes to Paid Family and Medical Leave Programs
• Leveraging AI to Improve Benefits Communication
• Addressing Evolving Compensation Expectations
• Strengthening Employee Financial Wellness under Secure 2.0

IMA will continue to monitor regulator guidance and offer meaningful, practical, timely information. This material should not be considered as a substitute for legal, tax and/or actuarial advice. Contact the appropriate professional counsel for such matters. These materials are not exhaustive and are subject to possible changes in applicable laws, rules, and regulations and their interpretations.