It's the start of a new year, which is always a good time to take a look at the benefits your company offers. Find out: when is open enrollment at your company? How will new health care laws change your medical insurance?
I know it can feel like a waste of time. So much paperwork that you have to deal with just to keep your benefits and if your company doesn't provide these benefits, it might be more challenging because you have to find the right plan on your own. Here are some things you should pay attention to when reviewing your corporate benefit plan:
- Medical and dental - even though you may have a deductible and higher than you would like co-pays, it is important to have the basics covered. There's no way to know what could happen tomorrow, so unless you already have insurance coverage, you will want to sign up.
- 401K - starting to plan for retirement in your 20's can make saving a substantial amount of money much easier. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that there will be time to worry about that in your 30's. Playing catch-up is a lot of pressure, so try to put away at least $25 to $50 a pay period into a retirement plan.
- Vacation time - taking a break from work can recharge and refresh your mind. Find out what sort of vacation time your company offers so that you can start planning ahead.
- Credit union memberships - if your employer offers this benefit, it can save you a lot of money. Most credit unions won't let you join unless you meet certain requirements, so getting in through your employer can be key.
- Tutition reimbursement - some companies give you a discount on education expenses, while others will pay your tuition. Find out which benefit your company offers. If you are one of the lucky ones who work for a company who pays your tuition, you should always take advantage of any chance to get a free education.
Taking some time to find out exactly what benefits your company offers can save you a lot of time, money, and trouble in the long run. Many companies offer a wide variety of benefits you may not even know about. So, if you haven't sat down with a human resources person and reviewed your company's business policy, now is a great time to take care of it.
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By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer, along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.
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