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What benefit carrier is changing for 2026?
We’re changing carriers from Unum to Lincoln Financial Group for life insurance, long-term disability, critical illness and accident policies.
Why is The Heritage Group changing from Unum to Lincoln Financial Group?
The Heritage Group regularly reviews its benefits offerings to ensure quality coverage, competitive rates, and responsive service. After a thorough review, Lincoln Financial was selected to better meet the needs of our employees.
When will the change take effect?
The change will take effect January 1st, 2026.
Will there be any changes to our benefits?
The Lincoln Financial programs will largely mirror what’s currently in place, although there may be slight differences, including our Spouse Life benefit. Please refer to the Lincoln Financial plan documents for details.
What changes are taking place to my Spouse Life benefit?
You will have an opportunity during open enrollment to purchase supplemental life insurance for your spouse or domestic partner in amounts of $25k, $50k, $75k or $100k. This benefit replaces the current Spouse Life benefit of 50% of your base salary and will not require evidence of insurability to enroll during Open Enrollment for 2026. Evidence of insurability will be required thereafter.
Will my premiums change?
Some premium rates may change depending on the coverage type and age band. Detailed rate information can be found in the 2026 Benefit Guide.
Who will manage my claim in 2026?
- For disability leaves that began in 2025, Unum will continue to be the point of contact for the claim.
- For new disability leaves that begin in 2026, Lincoln Financial will evaluate the claim for benefits.
- If you previously had a disability claim with Unum, returned to work for less than 6 months, and later require additional disability leave, please contact your Unum case manager to determine if your original disability claim will be continued.
- For accident or critical illness claims, if the diagnosis or accident occurs before January 1, 2026, Unum will evaluate your claim for benefits. If the diagnosis or accident occurs on or after January 1, 2026, Lincoln will evaluate your claim for benefits.
What action do I need to take during open enrollment?
Your current company-paid benefit elections will transfer automatically. We recommend you review all benefit elections in Workday for accuracy. As in previous open enrollments, you may have options for changes to employee-paid elections, but Evidence of Insurability could be required.
Where can I find more information?
Details including overviews and plan documents can be found in the 2026 Benefit Guide and the Total Rewards & Benefits Portal.
