As mid-year approaches, employers sponsoring benefit plans should begin preparing for upcoming Form 5500 filing obligations. For many calendar-year plans, Form 5500 filings are due by July 31, making June an ideal time to confirm whether filing requirements apply and ensure needed information is being gathered.

Pharmacy spending is once again the fastest growing component of employer health plans. Specialty drugs now account for more than half of total pharmacy spend, and GLP 1 medications for diabetes and weight management are reshaping budgets. Employers are feeling the pressure: rising premiums, unpredictable claims, and employee expectations for access to high cost therapies.

Self funding is no longer just for large employers. In 2026, small and mid sized businesses are embracing level funded and partially self funded plans at record rates. Rising premiums, greater access to stop loss coverage, and improved data analytics are making self funding a viable option for groups as small as 25–50 employees.