IRS Announces Health Plan Affordability Percentage for 2027 (Pay or Play Rules)

The IRS has announced that the ACA affordability percentage for employer-sponsored health coverage will increase to 10.22% for plan years beginning in 2027, the highest level to date. As a result, applicable large employers may have greater flexibility to increase employee contributions for self-only coverage while still meeting the ACA’s pay or play affordability requirements.

Blog Recap

EBSA Releases Agenda Outlining Upcoming Regulatory Actions

EBSA’s 2026 regulatory agenda highlights potential changes affecting health and retirement plans, including mental health parity, fertility benefits, ICHRAs, and transparency requirements. Although current compliance obligations remain unchanged, employers should monitor these developments closely.

Key Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Provisions Vacated Following Court Rulings

Federal court rulings permanently vacated key provisions of the 2024 ACA Section 1557 final rule, a decision HHS formally confirmed in June. Section 1557 prohibits discrimination in certain health programs based on race, color, and other factors. 

Rising Healthcare Costs Aren’t Slowing Down: How Employers Can Turn the Tide

Healthcare costs are projected to rise 8.5%-10% in 2026, extending a trend that continues to challenge employers. But managing costs is only part of the equation; helping employees understand the impact is just as critical. 

How a Home Healthcare Franchise Expanded Benefits Across 48 States

A national home healthcare franchise faced workforce and eligibility challenges. See how a custom benefits strategy expanded coverage across 48 states, improved caregiver access, and delivered three years of stable pricing.

Insights to Impact, On Your Schedule 

Did you miss any of our recent employee benefits webinars? Visit our webinar recording library to access all five 2026 Insights to Impact sessions anytime, anywhere:

• Simplifying Employee Healthcare: Personalized Care Navigation

• Health Plans: Driving Good Health Through Innovation & Engagement

• Strategic Pharmacy Planning: Driving Better Health and Lower Costs

• Benefits Intelligence: Leveraging Data to Optimize Your Health Plan Strategy

• Compliance Decoded: Actionable Insights for HR Leaders

We're here with expert support whenever you need it. 

Mineral and Zywave Client Portals: Two Valuable Resources

Hylant provides access to Mineral and Zywave to help our clients stay compliant, manage risk, and support their workforce. Both platforms offer HR tools, compliance resources, and employee training courses, with regularly updated content. While many features overlap, each platform has unique strengths. This guide highlights the best resources available in each, with preferred solutions noted where applicable. If you are a Hylant employee benefits client and haven’t yet signed up for access, please get in touch with your Hylant representative.