March 2026: Employee Benefits Compliance Brief

March 16, 2026

An exclusive UBA Partner Firm monthly newsletter, focusing on one of your most important responsibilities — employer compliance.

Employer Priorities

ACA Reporting Deadlines (March 2026)

March is the most critical month for ACA reporting. Employers must meet deadlines for furnishing employee forms and filing with the IRS. Missing deadlines or submitting incorrect information can result in significant penalties. Employers should confirm required forms, ensure data accuracy across systems, and retain documentation for potential IRS inquiries.

2027 ACA Out-of-Pocket Maximums Increase

Federal regulators have announced higher out-of-pocket maximums for 2027, increasing by approximately 13%. Employers should review plan designs, confirm embedded individual limits, and coordinate with carriers or TPAs to ensure compliance. This is also an opportunity to evaluate cost-sharing strategies for employees.

Paid Family & Medical Leave Tax Credit

Employers offering paid family and medical leave may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to 25% of wages paid during leave. To qualify, employers must maintain a compliant written policy and meet wage and eligibility requirements. Reviewing current leave policies could uncover opportunities for tax savings.