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Welcome to UI Retiree Open Enrollment for Plan Year 2026
It's time to review your current retiree benefits with the University for the upcoming plan year. In the coming weeks, you'll receive a letter at your home address outlining important updates and changes to your benefits for 2026. Please review this information carefully to ensure your coverage continues to meet your needs.
If you do not make any changes during this enrollment period, your existing coverage will automatically carry over into 2026 - except for Health Alliance retirees. If you are currently enrolled in a Health Alliance plan, you must take action during this open enrollment period to select new coverage for the upcoming year.
Key Open Enrollment Dates
Oct. 15
Retirees can start reviewing and selecting benefit options for 2026.
Dec. 7
Last day to make changes to your benefits.
Jan. 1
New coverage and premiums take effect for 2026.
Explore What's Changing in 2026:
We know benefit updates can feel overwhelming, so we've broken down the key changes into easy-to-navigate sections. Click below to explore the updates and discover what's changing.
What's Changing in 2026 Benefits:
UI Health Insurance: UIChoice and UISelect
UIChoice and UISelect plans will see updates in both premiums and plan design changes for 2026:
2026 UI Retiree Health Plan Premiums:
The UI will continue to contribute $288 per month toward the cost of UIChoice or UISelect for eligible retirees.
Medicare Eligible Retirees
| Plan | Retiree Only | Retiree + spouse (1 Medicare Elig.) | retiree + Spouse (both Medicare Elig.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UIChoice Total Cost | $1,031 | $1,986 | $2,062 |
| UIChoice w/$288 Contribution | $743 | $1,698 | $1,774 |
| UISelect Total Cost | $928 | $1,610 | $1,856 |
| UISelect w/$288 Contribution | $640 | $1,322 | $1,568 |
Not Medicare Eligible Retirees
| Plan | Retiree Only | Retiree + spouse | retiree + child | family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UIChoice Total Cost | $955 | $2,279 | $1,859 | $2,441 |
| UIChoice w/$288 Contribution | $667 | $1,991 | $1,571 | $2,153 |
| UISelect Total Cost | $682 | $1,627 | $1,328 | $1,743 |
| UISelect w/$288 Contribution | $394 | $1,339 | $1,040 | $1,455 |
2026 Health Plan Design Changes:
The medical out-of-pocket maximum for UIChoice and UISelect will increase effective Jan. 1, 2026.
| Plan Year | UIChoice Medical OPMS | UISelect Medical OPMs |
|---|---|---|
| Previous 2025 OPMS | Level 1 & Level 2 - Single: $2,000 | Family: $4,000 Level 3 - Single: $2,500 | Family: $5,000 | Level 1 - Single: $2,300 | Family: $4,000 Level 2 - Single: $3,500 | Family: $7,000 |
| NEW 2026 OPMS | Level 1 & 2 - Single: $2,300 | Family: $4,600 Level 3 - Single: $3,000 | Family: $6,000 | Level 1 - Single: $2,700 | Family: $4,700 Level 2 - Single: $4,100 | Family: $8,100 |
Guaranteed Issue Right
Due to plan changes, retirees enrolled in Medicare qualify for a Guaranteed Issue Right to purchase a Medicare Supplement policy.
This means insurers:
- Must sell you a policy
- Must cover pre-existing conditions
- Cannot charge more due to health history
Deadlines:
- Apply for a Medicare Supplement policy by March 5, 2026.
- Enroll in Medicare Part D by February 28, 2026.
UI Dental Insurance
2026 Retiree Dental II Premiums
There will be a slight premium increase for the dental plan in 2026.
| Coverage Option | 2026 DENTAL II Monthly premium |
|---|---|
| Retiree Only | $52.00 |
| Retiree + Spouse | $109.50 |
| Retiree + Child(ren) | $115.00 |
| Retiree + Family | $154.00 |
2026 Dental Plan Design Changes
While the deductible for Tier 2 and Tier 3 providers is not new, the amounts will increase in 2026. The deductible is now $30 for premier dentists and $50 for non-participating dentists.
These deductibles do not apply to check-ups, teeth cleanings, or orthodontics.
| Plan provision | PPO Providers Tier 1 | Premier Providers Tier 2 | Non-participating providers Tier 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deductible | $0 | $30 | $50 |
Health Alliance Plans Discontinued
If you are currently enrolled in a Health Alliance HMO Plus or PPO plan, please be aware that these plans will be discontinued effective December 31, 2025. This change means you must select a new health plan during the 2026 Open Enrollment period to ensure uninterrupted coverage beginning January 1, 2026.
Review the Health Alliance Transition section for your next steps during the open enrollment period.
UI Retiree Health Plan Participants
Medicare Supplement Plan Opportunity:
Due to changes in the health plans, retirees now qualify for guaranteed issue rights. This means Medicare insurers must accept your enrollment regardless of health status. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore Medicare supplement plans that may better suit your needs.
Recorded Health Information Session
The session features guest speaker, Kevin Ward, from the Johnson County Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and covers Medicare, Medicare Supplement/Medicare Advantage plans, and the University retiree health Options. At the end of the video he demonstrates how to compare Medicare plans on Medicare.gov.
Health Alliance Plan Discontinuation Details and Resources
As Health Alliance HMO Plus and PPO plans end on December 31, 2025, University of Iowa retirees enrolled in these plans will need to select new coverage for 2026. This section provides everything you need to make a smooth transition—important deadlines, plan options, resources, and support to help you navigate your choices with confidence.
Your Guaranteed Issue Right
You have a Guaranteed Issue Right to purchase a Medicare Supplement policy. This means:
- Insurance companies must sell you a policy
- They must cover pre-existing conditions
- They cannot charge you higher premiums due to health history
Health Alliance mailed a Guaranteed Issue Statement to your home. Insurance companies may require proof of your statement in order to enroll you in another plan. If you need a copy, call 877-917-8550.
Key Deadlines and Action Items
It's important to take timely action to ensure uninterrupted coverage in 2026. Whether you're enrolling in a new Medicare plan or switching to a UI retiree health plan, there are key deadlines and forms to complete. Below you'll find the most important dates and next steps to guide your transition.
Important Dates & Deadlines
- Oct. 15: Open Enrollment Begins
- Oct. 20 - 21: UI Benefits & SHIIP Info Sessions
- Oct. 23: Recorded session available online
- Oct. 27 - Nov. 14: Wellmark Medicare Seminars
- Dec. 7: Open Enrollment Ends; Health Plan Confirmation form due
- Jan. 1, 2026: Health Alliance plans end; New changes take effect
- Feb. 28, 2026: Deadline to enroll in a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan
Note: Delaying enrollment may result in a gap in coverage for January and February 2026.
Action Items
- Review your Guaranteed Issue Statement from Health Alliance
- Attend an informational session (in-person or Zoom)
- Explore Medicare options via Wellmark Medicare seminars
- Schedule an appointment with a SHIIP counselor
- Complete and return the Health Plan Confirmation Form by December 7
- Contact the University Benefits office for assistance or to request enrollment forms
Submit Confirmation Form:
Email: benefits@uiowa.edu
Fax: 319-335-2776
Mail: University Benefits Office, 120 USB, Iowa City, IA 52242
Health Alliance Retiree Information Sessions - Fall 2025
October Info Sessions Have Concluded
Thank you to all who attended the October 2025 Health Alliance Medicare Advantage Info Sessions. These sessions provided valuable guidance on navigating your Medicare options as Health Alliance coverage phases out.
If you missed a session, you can still access the recorded session and meeting materials below.
The University Benefits Office is partnered with the Johnson County Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) to offer dedicated informational sessions for Health Alliance retirees.
These sessions provided valuable updates and guidance on:
- Medicare Options in Iowa
Learn about the different types of Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans available, including key differences to help you make informed decisions. - 2026 UI Retiree Plans & Premiums
Get the latest information on upcoming changes to the University of Iowa retiree health and dental plans, including premium rates and coverage updates.
If you were unable to attend the meeting in person or by Zoom, please see the recorded session below:
Special Wellmark Medicare Seminars for Health Alliance Retirees
Wellmark will be holding several special Medicare seminars specifically for our Health Alliance retirees.
Seminar Details:
- Dates of Seminars: Several sessions available for Health Alliance retirees only beginning Oct. 27 through Nov. 14, 2025.
- Location: BioVentures Center, 2500 Crosspark Rd, Coralville, IA
- Format: In-person only - one-hour session, with time for consultations at the end.
- Registration Required: Space is limited at the BioVentures Center. Please refer to the Wellmark Seminar flyer included with your open enrollment letter for registration details.
Next Steps
Making Changes
Switching Health Plans
The University of Iowa offers two health plans: UIChoice and UISelect. If you're considering a change, you can review a side-by-side comparison to help determine which plan best meets your needs.
To switch plans:
- Complete and submit the enrollment form by December 7, 2025
- Send the form via email to benefits@uiowa.edu or mail it to the University Benefits Office.
- Your new health plan will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Canceling UI Retiree Coverage
If you wish to cancel your retiree health coverage, you must notify University Benefits in writing by December 7, 2025.
To cancel coverage:
- Email your request to benefits@uiowa.edu or mail it to the University Benefits Office.
- Your UI coverage will end on January 1, 2026.
Important: If you cancel your coverage, you will not be able to re-enroll in the university's plans later - unless you currently have health and/or dental insurance through your or your spouse/partner's employment. In that case, you may be eligible to re-enroll if that coverage ends.
Open Enrollment Resources
Health and Dental Plan Docs and Links
Health Insurance Resources and Documents
- Compare the UI health plan options, UIChoice and UISelect, side by side.
- 2026 UIChoice Summary of Benefits and Coverages (pdf) - coming soon
- 2026 UISelect Summary of Benefits and Coverages (pdf) - coming soon
- Review UI Retiree Health Insurance Premiums
Dental Insurance Plan Documents
- 2026 Dental II Summary Plan Description manual (pdf) - coming soon
- 2026 Dental II Benefit Summary (pdf) - coming soon
- Review UI Retiree Dental Insurance Premiums
Forms
- Need to switch health plans, remove a dependent, enroll in plans (Health Alliance retirees only) or cancel coverage?
2026 Retiree Enrollment Form (pdf) - Health Alliance Participants Only
2026 Health Alliance Participants Health Plan Confirmation Form (pdf) - Due to Benefits by Dec. 7, 2025 - Do you need to switch your bank account?
University of Iowa ACH Billing Form (pdf) - Beneficiary Update Form (pdf)
- Personal Health Information Release Form (pdf)
Message from Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)
Once again, this year, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is available to assist you in understanding your healthcare options. SHIIP Counselors will provide objective information concerning enrollment guidelines, benefits, and costs of your various Medicare alternatives. The SHIIP counselors from the Iowa City Senior Center are familiar with the two plans the University makes available to its retirees: UIChoice and UISelect. If you want to consider the options available to the general public, these Counselors can explain the benefits and costs of original Medicare, Medigap supplements, prescription drug plans, and Medicare Advantage plans available in Iowa.
It is essential to review your current Medicare coverage, particularly prescription drug and Medicare Advantage plans, every Fall during the Open Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7. The costs and benefits of your current plan may change for 2026, just as your healthcare needs may also change.
SHIIP Counselors from the Iowa City Senior Center are offering appointments at the Senior Center, the Mercer Aquatic Center in Iowa City, and the Community Center in North Liberty, in addition to Zoom and telephone options.
Appointments may be made online through the Iowa City Senior Center website: https://shiip.iowa.gov. This allows you to identify as a University of Iowa Retiree and select from the available locations and counselors. Please complete the questions asked when scheduling your appointment to enable the Counselor to assist you more effectively. Individuals may also call the Senior Center at 319-356-5220 for assistance.
Guaranteed Issue Right
GUARANTEED ISSUE RIGHT
UI RETIREES ENROLLED IN MEDICARE + UICHOICE or UISELECT
UI retirees enrolled in Medicare and the UIChoice or the UISelect plan will see an increase in their cost share for certain out-of-pocket maximums on January 1, 2026. Because these benefit changes may result in higher out-of-pocket costs for you in 2026, you will have a guaranteed issue opportunity to purchase an individual Medicare supplement policy.
Your Guaranteed Issue right means that the insurance company:
Must sell you a policy
Must cover pre-existing conditions
Cannot charge you a higher premium because of past or present health problems
If you are currently enrolled in UIChoice or UISelect and you are:
- Eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020
You can purchase any Medicare Supplement plan A, B, C, F, K, or L (including Medicare Select or high-deductible choices) from any company selling these plans in Iowa. - Eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020
You could purchase any Medicare Supplement plan A, B, D, G, K, or L (including Medicare Select or high-deductible choices) from any company selling these plans in Iowa. - Under age 65
You must buy from companies that sell to people on Medicare because of disability.
Deadlines
You have 63 days from the day your coverage ends to apply for a Medicare Supplement policy. To receive this guaranteed issue right you must apply for a policy by March 5, 2026.
If you decide to leave the UI retiree insurance, you will also have until February 28, 2026, to enroll in a Medicare Part D drug plan. However, if you enroll after December 31, 2025, your new coverage will not take effect until the first day of the month following the date you submit your application.
Leaving UI Health Plans
If you leave your UIChoice or UISelect health plan to purchase a Medicare supplement from the private market, you won’t be able to rejoin the UI group health plans.
Becoming Medicare Eligible
Becoming Medicare Eligible
If you or your spouse become eligible for Medicare, you must enroll in Medicare Parts A & B as your primary insurance. Failure to enroll on time may result in a penalty and delay your enrollment. If you are a UIChoice or UISelect plan participant, University Benefits will automatically enroll you in the UIChoice or UISelect Medicare Carveout plan, which will become the secondary payer. The UIChoice or UISelect Medicare Carveout includes creditable prescription drug coverage, and you should not enroll in a Medicare Part D plan.
If you do not wish to continue your UIChoice or UISelect coverage, you must notify University Benefits in writing.