Virginia Employer Benefits Compliance: What Businesses Need to Know for 2026

Virginia employers face a rapidly evolving landscape of benefits compliance requirements in 2026. Staying ahead of these changes is essential for protecting your business, supporting your employees and avoiding costly penalties. At BenefitsDrive, our team is dedicated to helping Virginia businesses and HR professionals navigate the complexities of employer-sponsored benefits compliance. 

Key Changes in Virginia Employer Benefits Compliance for 2026 

Virginia’s regulatory environment continues to adapt, with new and updated requirements impacting employer-sponsored benefits. The following are some of the most important areas to watch: 

• Paid leave and time off policies—Recent years have seen increased attention to paid family and medical leave. Virginia employers should monitor for any new state-mandated leave programs or changes to existing policies that could affect their obligations in 2026. 

• Mental health parity—There is a growing emphasis on mental health coverage parity. Employers may need to review their benefits packages to confirm that mental health and substance use disorder benefits are offered on par with medical and surgical benefits. 

• ACA and IRS reporting—Federal requirements, such as Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting, remain in effect. Virginia employers must continue to comply with IRS filing deadlines and documentation standards. 

• Employee notices and disclosures—New or updated notice requirements may be introduced, requiring employers to provide timely and accurate information to employees about their benefits and rights. 

Get Started Today 

Staying compliant with Virginia benefits regulations in 2026 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With our expertise, you can focus on your business while we help you manage the details of HR compliance. Contact us today to learn more. 

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.