Benefits Update
You should have recently received a brochure at your home titled “Planning for Option Transfer for 2026.” This brochure contains essential details about:
- How to change your New York State Health Insurance Program option during the Transfer Period
- Participating in the Pre-Tax Contribution Program
- Enrolling in the Productivity Enhancement Program
Important Program Dates:
Flex Spending Account (FSA) Open Enrollment Period: November 1 - December 8, 2025
This benefit allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for dependent care, health care or adoption-related costs. Funds placed into a Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) may be used to cover a wide range of eligible expenses, including copayments, prescription medications and many over-the-counter products.
Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) Enrollment Period:
November 1 - December 8, 2025
This program allows you to exchange previously accrued leave in return for a credit to be applied toward your NYSHIP premium. SEE THE TABLE BELOW.
Pre-Tax Contribution Program (PTCP) Election Period: Same as 2026 Option Transfer Period
This program allows you to have your share of your health insurance premium deducted from your paycheck before taxes are withheld.
Option Transfer Information Availability
The Option Transfer Period is the time of year when you are able to change your NYSHIP option for the next plan year.
Health Insurance Choices for 2026 for active employees will be published in October. Ask your HBA for a copy or view it on the NYSHIP website.
The Option Transfer Guide on the NYSHIP website provides quick access to tools and additional resources to assist you in your research.
NYSHIP Rates & Deadlines will be posted online and mailed to enrollee homes once rates have been approved. (PLEASE REVIEW WHEN THIS COMES TO YOUR HOME.)
The new health insurance plan benefit year will begin on January 1, 2026
Young Adult Option Enrollment
The Young Adult Option open enrollment period will be announced once rates are available and will run concurrently with the Option Transfer Period. During this time, eligible adult children of NYSHIP enrollees can enroll or change plans.
Please review it carefully to ensure you’re informed about your choices and deadlines.
Be on the lookout for
The NYSHIP Rates & Deadlines brochure that will be mailed to your home (Health insurance premiums/deductibles are anticipated to increase!)
An email in the next few weeks from Human Resources to make your selections