Employee Benefits Market Check Survey: Equity in Employee Benefits

Equity in employee benefits is an increasing priority as organizations strive to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible offerings for all employees. As they evaluate how benefits are designed, communicated, and accessed, many are uncovering gaps that may unintentionally favor certain employee populations over others.

This month, we explore how employers are thinking about and addressing benefits equity. We conducted several polls on April 23, and the insights that follow summarize these responses.

*Results based on 156 employer respondents.

*Results based on 108 employer respondents.

Key Findings

The findings reveal a perception gap: while many employers report no significant inequities in their benefits, other responses suggest disparities may still exist beneath the surface, particularly across compensation levels, health status, and employee types. At the same time, benefits equity is not consistently defined or measured as a strategic priority, indicating that awareness and action are not yet fully aligned.

Plan design plays a key role, with cost-sharing structures emerging as a primary driver of inequity, especially for lower-paid employees or those with greater healthcare needs. A significant portion of respondents is also unsure which aspects of their plans contribute most, highlighting a need for deeper analysis and greater visibility into how benefits impact different populations.

Looking ahead, cost constraints remain the dominant barrier, cited by over half of respondents. This underscores a critical tension: improving equity is often viewed as a financial tradeoff rather than a design challenge. Employers should consider shifting the conversation from “more spend” to “smarter spend” —evaluating contribution strategies, tiering approaches, and targeted support mechanisms that better align costs with employee needs. Just as important is establishing clearer definitions, metrics, and accountability around benefits equity so progress can be measured and sustained over time. A commitment to advancing health equity will strengthen the organization’s and its workforce’s health.

Should you have any questions regarding any of this information or want to discuss your benefits strategy, please contact your local Assurex Global adviser.