WTW Finds 20% Currently Use AI in Benefits, 72% to Integrate by 2028
WTW•WTW’s 2026 survey of 312 employers covering 4.6 million US employees found that 20% currently use AI in benefits versus 72% planning integration within two years, focusing on communication (68%), data analytics (59%) and personalized support (57%). Seventy-one percent report insufficient AI resources and 70% cite data privacy barriers.
1. Survey Overview
WTW’s 2026 AI Use in Health and Benefits Survey collected insights from 312 employers representing 4.6 million US employees between January and February 2026. The study measured current AI deployment in benefits operations and gauged plans for broader adoption over the next two years, as well as organizational readiness.
2. Adoption Rates and Use Cases
Only 20% of surveyed employers currently operationalize AI within their benefits programs, yet 72% intend to embed AI within two years. Employers prioritize AI for improving communication (68%), enhancing data analytics and insights (59%) and delivering personalized support (57%), with early adopters (16%) leading defined strategies and external partnerships.
3. Implementation Barriers and Governance
Despite strong interest, 71% of benefit teams report limited internal AI skills and resources, and just 1% have a fully developed AI roadmap or governance framework specific to benefits. Data privacy and security concerns top the list of barriers (70%), followed by fears of AI errors (66%) and compliance or fiduciary risks (64%).
