2026 changes make it easier to enroll in retiree health benefits

From coverage gaps to long-term leave, here’s what’s changing — and why it may matter to you.

Several updates to UC’s regulations for retiree health insurance took effect on January 1, 2026. If you’re planning to retire soon, these changes could make it easier for you to enroll in the retiree health benefits you’ve earned.

Savings Choice retirees are eligible for retiree health benefits

With the 10-year anniversary of the UC Retirement Choice Program, some employees who chose Savings Choice when they were first hired and remained in Savings Choice may now be eligible to enroll in Retiree Health benefits.

Savings Choice participants and members of Pension Choice (and the UC Retirement Plan, or UCRP) have the same requirements for eligibility for retiree health benefits. You must elect a retirement date and, as of that date:

• Be 55 years or older and
• Have earned 10 or more years of service credit

Savings Choice service credit counts toward eligibility just like the service credit earned by UCRP members — even if you’ve withdrawn the funds from your Savings Choice account.

Changing medical plans when you retire

Retirement is a major life event — and now it’s an opportunity to choose a new medical plan and enroll or disenroll eligible family members.

One important exception: The HealthSavings+ plan is not an option during this special enrollment period. If you’re interested in and eligible for HealthSavings+, you’ll need to wait for Open Enrollment to make that change.

No more proof of coverage requirements for new retirees

Previously, if a gap existed between the end of your employee benefits and the start of your retiree health coverage, you were required to provide proof that you had maintained other insurance in the meantime. It’s still important to maintain your health coverage, but you’re no longer required to provide documentation.

Easier transition from long-term leaves to retirement

Until January 2026, UC employees on unpaid leave for more than two years faced a “Break in Service” — meaning their retiree health eligibility was disrupted and they had to return to active pay status to requalify. In some cases, this also changed their status in a way that could affect their coverage costs.

Starting this year, employees on an approved leave of absence of any length will retain their retiree health eligibility for the duration of the leave, as long as they remain eligible for employee benefits. There is no longer any requirement to return to pay status first.

You must still meet all other eligibility criteria. As long as your leave is approved and you otherwise qualify, your Retiree Health Group — and your path to retiree coverage — is protected.

Learn more

For all the details, refer to the Group Insurance Regulations for Retired Members, Disabled Members and Survivors on UCnet. Retirement Administration Service Center (RASC) counselors can guide you through your retirement journey, including your health and welfare benefits. Go to the scheduler to set an appointment with a RASC Retirement Counselor.