Open enrollment season can often be a logistical and communication challenge for many employers and employees. From navigating complex benefits packages to racing against tight deadlines, the process can feel overwhelming and leave teams stretched thin.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can empower employers to make open enrollment more personalized, efficient, and engaging. Businessolver reports that AI-driven support doubles employee engagement and boosts confidence, yet only 13% of companies leverage these tools.
Here are five ways to use AI for a better open enrollment in 2026.
Traditional Challenges of Open Enrollment
Open enrollment is often complicated by information overload, complex terminology, and low employee engagement. Many employees default to last year’s choices or skip reviewing options due to confusion or time constraints, while unfamiliar technology further increases frustration.
Open enrollment also puts significant strain on Human Resources (HR) teams, who spend valuable time answering repeat questions and resolving issues, often becoming a bottleneck in the process.
Leveraging AI for Open Enrollment
These challenges can reduce program effectiveness and lead to costly mistakes, but AI offers employers new solutions to optimize open enrollment.
- Personalized Guidance Through AI Chatbots
AI chatbots deliver real-time, personalized answers to benefits questions, eliminating the need to search dense documents or wait for HR. These tools can be tailored to your company’s benefits, ensuring relevant support for employees.
- Data-driven Recommendations
AI transforms open enrollment by delivering tailored benefit recommendations based on each employee’s needs and history. Whether guiding a parent toward comprehensive coverage or identifying the value of an HSA for a healthy employee, this level of personalization helps employees make smarter choices and drives stronger results for your organization.
- Automated Communication Campaigns
According to an Aon report, AI-driven communication boosts on-time enrollments by 40%. AI can automate reminders and deliver personalized support, guiding employees through each step of enrollment.
- Reduced Administrative Burden
AI automates tasks like form checks and deadline tracking, freeing teams for strategic work. It also flags errors early, supporting compliance and reducing costly mistakes.
- Enhanced Employee Experience
Empower your team with AI-powered, 24/7 enrollment guidance, giving employees the freedom to explore options, get instant answers, and make confident benefit selections whenever it’s convenient. Confident, well-supported employees are more likely to maximize their coverage and satisfaction.
The Future of AI for Benefits
As AI advances, expect new tools like voice assistants and predictive analytics to further simplify benefits. However, it remains crucial to ensure transparency, protect employee data, and provide access to human support.
Conclusion
AI transforms open enrollment into a strategic opportunity, streamlining operations, boosting engagement, and helping employees make informed decisions year-round. Download the bulletin for more details.
