Don't Snooze Through Open Enrollment
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Our company is about to embark on open enrollment for benefits. But, in the lunch room, a poster says that if you are happy with your current benefits, you don't need to do anything.
Such laziness could cost you.
If you've read any headlines around health care and insurance, plans are about to get more expensive. You should take this time to review your coverage and consider other benefits, including flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, wellness programs and commuting options.
According to a recent survey of hiring managers, one-third said that failing to review your options during open enrollment can cost employees $500 or more. Even worse, 25 percent of workers in the same survey said they don't pay any attention to benefit changes.
The survey of 2,900 hiring managers and 4,000 workers was conducted for CareerBuilder by Harris Interactive. CareerBuilder offers the following tips on how to make the most of your benefits this year:
- Schedule time on your calendar: Make sure to schedule this review early in the process, so you're not rushing to make a decision an hour before the deadline.
- Leverage pre-tax dollars: Pre-tax dollars can help more than your 401k. Health care premiums and flexible spending accounts, both for health and child care, can help lower your tax burden. Company transit programs also allow you set aside pre-tax dollars for commuting.
- Compare plans: Work with human resources to compare coverage of internal options and those offered through your spouse's or partner's employer. It may make more sense just to choose one.
- Don't miss out on perks: Open enrollment is a good time to refresh yourself on discounts offered through your employer.
After you've reviewed your options, be sure to understand the circumstances for changing benefits mid-year due to life changing events.
Do you have any tips for handling open enrollment?



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