2026 Employee Benefits Market Outlook 29 This conversation also highlights the rising demand for information and support across all aspects and phases of womens reproductive health. As such, employers are increasingly introducing these benefits: Fertility benefits, including IVF coverage and fer- tility preservation (e.g., embryo and egg freezing) options Enhanced maternity support, including expanded parental leave, lactation services, doula services, mental health support and caregiving Accommodations to manage menstrual health issues and menopause symptoms Menopause support through coverage, virtual care, symptom management programs, workplace poli- cies and employee resource groups These initiatives reflect a growing recognition that womens health needs are not nichetheyre integral to workforce well-being. Gen Z, millennial and Gen X workers alike are looking for access to womens health, including fertility and menopause support and every- thing in between. Building Financial Resilience Economic uncertainty and rising health care and living costs have pushed financial wellness to the forefront. Employees increasingly link financial stress to mental health challenges, making this an essential pillar of workplace well-being. Moreover, Vanguard research found that nearly 75% of Americans fell short of their saving and spending resolutions in 2025. However, theyre ready to recommit in 2026 and are optimistic about it. As such, 84% of Americans have a financial resolution for 2026, with building an emergency fund and using a high-yielding account for short-term sav- ings goals as the top two resolutions. While the majority of workers are concerned about economic uncertainty this year, there are some gen- erational differences. For example, baby boomers are concerned about unexpected expenses, millennials are struggling with insufficient income and Gen Z is most likely to live beyond their means. In response to the growing need for financial education and support, more organizations may offer the following types of benefits: Financial education workshops and debt counseling Flexible pay options and emergency savings programs Student loan repayment Retirement planning EAPs Similar to how mental fitness is characterized by resilience, todays workers are looking for financial resil- ience so they can handle what comes their way in life. Fortunately, employers are well-positioned to help workers gain their financial footing this year. Summary Health and wellness continue to evolve and can vary across different generations. Wellness is a very personal journey, but employers have the opportunity to offer meaningful support. As these trends continue to shape employee wellness, employers can evaluate their cur- rent wellness initiatives and consider ways to improve them to better support workers in 2026.