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Writer's pictureChristine Stolpe CPP

Are You Leaving Money on the Desk?

The Value of Employee Benefits: Beyond Your Paycheck



When considering your total annual compensation, it is important to look beyond just your earnings. Employee benefits can significantly enhance the value of your employment, providing financial security, health coverage, and other valuable perks. Understanding these benefits is key to maximizing what you gain from your job.


If you ever have questions about the benefits available to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Benefits Team or directly to the plan administrator. They are there to help you make the most of your compensation package and can offer valuable insights into how these benefits work and what they mean for your financial and personal well-being. Asking questions is another smart way to ensure you’re taking full advantage of what’s offered to you.


Types of Common Employee Benefits


Health Insurance

What It Is:

Health insurance is one of the most valuable benefits offered by employers. It typically includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, helping you manage healthcare costs. Take time to read the coverage and cost information provided during open enrollment.


Why It Matters:

Health insurance not only protects you from unexpected medical expenses but also plays an important role in your overall well-being. Understanding your coverage options will ensure you are choosing the best plan for you, your family, and your financial situation.


Retirement Plans

What They Are:

Retirement plans, such as 401(k) or pension plans, allow you to save for your future while benefiting from employer contributions. The amounts you contribute to the plan will defer the taxes on the earnings until they are withdrawn after retirement, reducing the current payroll tax liability. Many employers offer matching contributions, effectively giving you free money towards your retirement.


Why It Matters:

Participating in a retirement plan helps secure your financial future. Not only do you take advantage of the tax savings now, but you will [hopefully] have the advantage of a lower tax rate when you withdraw the funds after you retire. Find out how much your employer offers as a match, and be sure to maximize the amount the employer contributions to your retirement account by making the minimum contribution amount required. By taking full advantage of the employer contributions and understanding your investment options, you can build a solid foundation for retirement.


Paid Time Off (PTO)

What It Is:

Paid time off includes vacation days, sick leave, and personal days that you can use without losing pay. Some companies also offer paid holidays and paid leave in addition to PTO. Many PTO policies include minimum amounts that can be requested at a time, and many paid leave policies require that PTO be used prior to any leave payments.


Why It Matters:

PTO is a vital component of work-life balance. Be mindful of your employer's policy for balances at year-end so you don't inadvertently lose your precious hours of paid time away. Even if you are a remote worker, knowing how much time off you can take and planning your work schedule separately from your personal life strategically allows you to rest and recharge without worrying about your paycheck.


Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)



Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
What It Is:

An FSA is an employer-sponsored account that allows you to set aside pre-tax money to pay for eligible healthcare expenses, such as copayments, prescriptions, and medical equipment. The key advantage of an FSA is that contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, reducing your taxable income.


Why It Matters:

FSAs can be a great way to save on healthcare costs, but it’s important to plan your contributions carefully. Funds in an FSA must be used within the plan year or by a grace period extension, typically up to 2.5 months. Any unused funds at the end of this period are forfeited, so estimating your annual healthcare expenses accurately is critical.


Example:

If you know you have regular medical expenses, like monthly prescriptions or planned dental work, contributing to an FSA can save you money by reducing your taxable income. Just be sure to use the funds within the allowed timeframe.


Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
What It Is:

An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account designed for individuals with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). Unlike FSAs, HSA funds carry over year to year, and you can even invest the money in your HSA, allowing it to earn gains over time. Contributions to an HSA are made with pre-tax dollars, and withdrawals for eligible healthcare expenses are tax-free.


Why It Matters:

HSAs offer a triple tax advantage—contributions are tax-deductible, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. This makes HSAs a powerful tool not only for covering current medical expenses but also for saving for future healthcare costs, even into retirement. Additionally, after age 65, you can withdraw funds from your HSA for non-medical expenses without penalty (though you’ll pay regular income tax on these withdrawals).


Example:

If you have a high-deductible health plan and want to save for both current and future healthcare expenses, contributing to an HSA can be a smart move. You can use the funds to cover out-of-pocket expenses now or let the account grow for future use, giving you flexibility and potential long-term savings.


How to Maximize Your Benefits

Review Your Options Annually

Each year, during open enrollment, take the time to review your benefit options. Your needs may change, and adjusting your benefits can help you get the most out of what your employer offers.


Take Advantage of Employer Contributions

Ensure you’re contributing enough to your retirement plan to receive the full employer match. Not maximizing this benefit is essentially refusing free money that boosts your retirement savings.


Plan Your PTO

Use your paid time off wisely. Plan vacations in advance and make sure to take time for yourself to avoid burnout, even if that's a personal three-day weekend once a month.


Maximizing Your FSA and HSA

For FSAs:

Carefully estimate your annual healthcare costs to make the most of your FSA without risking forfeiture of unused funds.


For HSAs:

Contribute as much as you can afford to take full advantage of the tax benefits and consider investing your HSA funds if you don’t need them right away.


Employee benefits are a key part of your overall compensation package. By understanding and making the most of these benefits, you can enhance your financial security, health, and well-being.


Curious about how payroll taxes affect your finances? Explore more on my blog to enhance your understanding and stay financially savvy.

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