Medicare Enrollment · 2026
Medicare Annual Enrollment Tips
Read the supplied September 2026 fact sheet for the October 15–December 7 enrollment period. Connecticut CHOICES: 800-994-9422.
Read enrollment tips (PDF) →
Tools to help your business start, strengthen and grow
Business Support Center
Trusted Connecticut and federal programs gathered in one place—so you can find the right help, even when you don't know what to ask for yet.
Connecticut and federal business help—all in one place.
Current updates
Business Alerts & Updates
Current state and federal updates for local businesses and families, including workplace rules, funding and community programs.
Medicare Resource
Traditional Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
A side-by-side guide from the Center for Medicare Advocacy covering provider access, referrals, prior authorization, out-of-pocket costs, prescription coverage and Medigap.
View the Medicare comparison (PDF) →Community Update · September 25
Breakfast at No Cost for All CT Public School Students
All K–12 public school students can receive breakfast at the start of each school day. No application is needed; check with your school for serving times and locations.
Read the state announcement →Know Your Rights & Responsibilities
Federal Wage & Working-Condition Standards
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division administers and enforces laws establishing minimum standards for wages and working conditions—regardless of immigration status.
Read the Wage and Hour Division overview →Employer Resource
Federal Payroll Self-Audit Program
The U.S. Department of Labor’s voluntary PAID program helps employers review and resolve certain minimum-wage, overtime and family-leave violations.
Review the official PAID program →October 1
Connecticut Workplace Changes Take Effect
Employers should review six 2026 changes involving personnel records, lactation space, paid sick leave, leave notices and other workplace requirements.
Use the employer checklist →Insurance
2027 Small-Group Health Insurance Rates Approved
Connecticut approved an average 15.1% increase for fully insured small-group plans. Open enrollment begins October 23, 2026.
Read the state announcement →Tax Credit
New Health-Coverage Credit for Small Businesses
Qualified Connecticut employers with fewer than 50 in-state employees may be eligible for an ICHRA tax credit of up to $1,000 per covered employee.
Review Connecticut tax updates →Payroll
Connecticut Minimum Wage Changes January 1
The state minimum wage will increase from $16.94 to $17.48 per hour on January 1, 2027. Employers should plan payroll and notice updates now.
See official wage information →Employer Tax Credit
Save When Contributing to Employees’ CHET Accounts
Eligible employers may claim 25% of qualifying contributions to an employee’s CHET college-savings account, capped at $500 per employee per year.
Review the state tax guidance →