
Small-Group Health Insurance Premiums Could Rise 14% in 2027: A Budget Playbook for Employers
Insurers have filed a median 14% small-group premium increase for 2027, following an 11% rise for 2026, while Mercer projects employer health costs up 8.2% per employee even after cost controls. This guide explains what is driving the increases, how to model the renewal in per-employee-per-month terms, and five levers (competitive bids, level-funded and ICHRA/CHOICE comparisons, plan redesign, defined contributions, and early communication) that can shrink the hit before open enrollment.










