Trinity University Announces Updates for 2026 Benefits Enrollment

The Office of Human Resources is pleased to share important updates for the 2026 benefits year. These changes were reviewed by the Health and Welfare Committee, composed of faculty and staff representatives, and reflect Trinity’s ongoing commitment to offering comprehensive, competitive benefits that support your well-being. Find out more about what’s new for 2026, and plan to attend the events listed below to learn more and have your questions answered.

Key Updates:

Income Protection Benefits (new, paid by Trinity):

• Short-Term Disability: Available to all benefit-eligible staff, with a 7-day elimination period. Provides 60% of pay (up to $2,500/week) for up to 25 weeks.
• Long-Term Disability: Available to all benefit-eligible faculty and staff, with a 180-day elimination period. Provides 60% of pay (up to $10,000/month).

Health and Welfare:

• New medical plan rates will take effect in 2026. Increases are modest and reflect rising medical costs, while ensuring we maintain high-quality coverage.

Vendor Changes:

• Dental and vision coverage will transition to Aetna with slight premium changes. Employees must make new elections for these benefits during open enrollment.

Retirement Plan Updates (Secure 2.0):

• Roth catch-up contributions will apply to certain employees age 50+ based on income levels.

Legislative Updates:

• Expanded limits for dependent care assistance programs begin in 2026 (from $5,000 to $7,500).
• Mandatory increase to the HDHP deductible.*

Financial Adjustments:

• Trinity Flex$ will decrease by $50, from $290 to $240 per month.
• To help offset medical costs, Trinity will contribute an additional $50 per month toward medical premiums.

Important Dates:

• September 24: Financial Income Protection Wellness Event with carrier presentations, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Fiesta Room
• September 30: Benefits Introduction, 2–3 p.m., NH040
• October 1: Virtual Benefits Introduction, noon–12:45 p.m.
• October 20: Virtual Benefits Fair, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
• October 22: On-Campus Benefits Fair, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Fiesta Room
• October 28: On-Campus Enrollment & Benefits Introduction in Spanish, 10 a.m.–noon, Fiesta Room
• October 27–November 10: Open Enrollment in Workday
• January 1, 2026: New benefits take effect

A full 2026 Benefits Guide is available with detailed information on all plan options. We encourage you to attend a benefits fair or information session to explore these updates and ask questions.