UC’s Open Enrollment period for 2026 benefits will begin this Thursday, Oct. 30, at 8 a.m. and will run through 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21.

There are some big changes to UC’s medical plans and premiums. If you sometimes ignore Open Enrollment, this is the year to take another look at your options. The medical plan you have this year may not be available, or your best choice, for next year. Learn five things to know — and one thing to do — to make sure you’re prepared.

Join us for the Oakland Open Enrollment Kick-Off Fair

On Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., join us in the Broadway Conference Center for an informative and engaging Open Enrollment event!

Event highlights

• Open Enrollment updates: Learn about the latest changes and options for your 2026 UC benefits.
• Plan partner representatives: Connect directly with representatives from UC’s health and welfare plans.
• Giveaways & swag: Take home exclusive items and fun giveaways from our plan partners (while supplies last).
• RASC insurance liaisons: Speak with members of the Retirement Administration Service Center (RASC) team to explore retiree insurance options.
• UCOP health care facilitator: Meet your dedicated, confidential resource for navigating UC health plans and the health care system.
• Complimentary refreshments:Enjoy light snacks and beverages during the event.
• Prize drawing: Sign in during the event for a chance to win a prize! (Winners must be able to pick up their prize in the Oakland UCOP office; delivery is not available.)

Event FAQs

• Do I need to register for the Benefits Fair?
  Registration is not required. You are welcome to drop in at any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• Can I invite my spouse/domestic partner and/or dependents?
  This event is intended for UCOP employees only.
• Are UCOP retirees allowed to attend?
  While some health plan vendors may have information relevant to non-Medicare retirees, the Benefits Fair is primarily intended for current UCOP staff.
• Will flu or COVID-19 vaccines be offered during the event?
  No; however, all UC medical plans cover flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost when received through in-network providers, in accordance with your plan’s guidelines.
• Can I make Open Enrollment changes at the event?
  Open Enrollment changes must be made through UCPath at ucpath.universityofcalifornia.edu from 8 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21. If you’re unable to make changes online, you can call the UCPath Center for help at 855-982-7284, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• I can’t attend the Oakland event. Where can I learn more about Open Enrollment changes?
  You can find more information about Open Enrollment changes and options by visiting the Open Enrollment website (us/oe) starting on Oct. 27. For support with complex matters, please schedule a confidential one-on-one appointment with your local health care facilitator.
• Do I need to be present to win a prize? Yes, you must sign in during the fair to be eligible to win a prize and you will need to be able to pick up your prize from the Oakland UCOP office. You do not need to be present during the drawing.

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