The State of ICHRA Report 2026 Presented by Oscar

ICHRA is no longer sitting on the sidelines of the benefits conversation. As healthcare costs continue to rise and employers search for more flexible, sustainable options, ICHRA is becoming an increasingly important part of the discussion.

Key Findings:

56% of brokers are now actively recommending or implementing ICHRA

94% of employers have explored alternative cost-containment strategies

15.5% average estimated savings reported by brokers

89% of employees said their ICHRA coverage was better than their previous group plan

& much more

The State of ICHRA 2026

When federal regulators introduced ICHRA in 2020, it created a new way for employers to fund health insurance while giving employees more freedom to choose their own plans. For years, the model remained largely on the sidelines, explored by innovators and early adopters, but unfamiliar to much of the broader benefits market.

That changed in 2026.

As healthcare costs continued rising and many employers faced double-digit renewal increases, organizations began looking beyond traditional cost-containment strategies. At the same time, brokers and consultants saw growing demand for more flexible, personalized benefits models.

Inside the Report:

Why ICHRA has officially entered the mainstream benefits conversation

What’s driving employers to reevaluate traditional group health plans

How brokers are using ICHRA to expand—not replace—their advisory role

Real enrollment and consumer behavior trends from 20,000+ SureCo members

Why education and employee support are becoming critical to successful implementation

Sponsored by Oscar Health, SureCo’s 2026 State of ICHRA Report draws on nationwide survey data from employers, employees, and brokers — alongside enrollment insights from thousands of SureCo members — to provide a comprehensive look at how ICHRA is moving from early-adopter concept to mainstream benefits strategy.

“Consumers expect to shop for coverage like they do for everyday products – comparing options, prices, and value. ICHRA delivers on the level of choice and transparency to meet the needs of the modern workforce. Oscar’s technology and focus on the member experience puts consumers in control. We are lowering costs and helping everyone bundle personalized products that fit their life.”

—Mark Bertolini, Chief Executive Officer of Oscar Health