The Hartford’s 2026 Future of Benefits Study highlights a clear message from employers: as HR responsibilities expand and technology reshapes the workplace, simplicity has become a strategic imperative.
According to the research, nearly three-quarters (73%) of employers report that their daily responsibilities have increased in recent years. As HR teams juggle more tasks and coordinate multiple vendors, many are seeking consolidated, “one-stop-shop” solutions that combine enrollment platforms, streamlined leave management, integrated administration, and reliable claims support under a single umbrella.
“Our Future of Benefits research clearly shows benefits are not a product-specific checklist anymore, but rather an important way to meet the comprehensive needs of U.S. workers,” said The Hartford’s Head of Employee Benefits Mike Fish. “The study highlights the need for integrated solutions from insurers; these solutions should support the intricacies of HR technology, convey the benefits of digital tools to employers and provide training and support for HR professionals and employees to bolster benefits engagement.”
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The findings reflect an HR function in transition. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of HR professionals say managing multiple carriers is challenging, while simplicity and cost rank among the top reasons for choosing a single non-medical benefits provider.
Technology is playing a growing role in these decisions. More than half (54%) of employers say HR technology and benefits platforms heavily influence their benefits strategy. Although 85% are still learning how to effectively use AI, 82% feel comfortable using it in certain aspects of their work. However, 95% want technology to help them with everyday tasks but would like human assistance with complex or sensitive issues.
Another challenge that exists is enrollment. Since 79% of employers have issues educating their employees about benefits, most employers have worked to ensure that their 2026 open enrollment process is improved, using technology such as AI recommendations. This is evidence of a larger trend: employers want technology that can simplify complexity without losing the human element.
