Helping you stay ahead of benefit and compliance updates for 2026
As we approach 2026, several federal benefit changes will take effect that may impact how you and your employees manage pre-tax savings and retirement contributions. IronRoad is committed to keeping your organization compliant and your employees informed. Below is a summary of the most relevant updates related to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA), telehealth coverage, and retirement plan 401(k) rules.
FSA & HSA Updates for 2026
Telehealth Pre-Deductible Coverage: Employers offering HDHPs can now continue providing first-dollar telehealth coverage—meaning employees can access virtual care before meeting their deductible—without losing HSA eligibility.
HSA Catch-Up for Married Couples: Starting in 2026, married couples aged 55 and older will be able to make combined catch-up contributions into a single shared HSA account, simplifying account management.
Higher Contribution Limits: The IRS will raise annual HSA and FSA limits for 2026. IronRoad will automatically update your plan documents and payroll systems to reflect those changes once final numbers are released.
401(k) and SECURE 2.0 Retirement Plan Changes
Several major provisions of the SECURE 2.0 Act take effect in 2026, shaping how employees save for retirement:
Mandatory Roth Catch-Up Contributions: Employees earning more than $145,000 annually will have all catch-up contributions treated as Roth (after-tax) starting in 2026. Employers should ensure that their payroll and record-keeping systems are ready to handle this classification.
Expanded Catch-Up for Ages 60–63: Employees in this age range will be eligible to contribute up to 150% of the standard catch-up limit, helping those nearing retirement save more.
Part-Time Employee Eligibility: Workers with at least 500 hours of service for two consecutive years will now be eligible to participate in 401(k) plans. IronRoad will assist in tracking eligibility and managing enrollment.
Paper Statement Requirement: Beginning in 2026, plan sponsors must provide at least one paper statement per year to participants unless they have opted into full electronic delivery.
What IronRoad Is Doing
Our team is:
Updating plan documentation and payroll systems to comply with 2026 regulations.
Preparing employee education materials for open enrollment and year-end communications.
Coordinating with isolved to ensure implementation of Roth and eligibility updates.
We’ll keep you informed with finalized contribution limits and any additional guidance as the IRS and DOL issue updates.
We’re Here to Help
As always, IronRoad’s PEO and Client Services teams are here to help you navigate these transitions smoothly. If you have questions about these upcoming changes or would like a customized briefing for your organization, please don't hesitate to reach out.
