UNDERSTAND BENEFITS BEFORE YOU ACCEPT AN OFFER!
October 3rd, 2006
Before you accept a new job, you must understand the value of a benefit package. The cost of benefits is dramatically escalating and many employers are increasing deductibles in order to keep costs down.
You must answer these questions prior to accepting an offer.
1. What benefits are offered
2. When do the benefits start
3. Does the company pay any of the costs of these benefits
4. What is your contribution – is it a pre-tax deduction
5. Do they offer family coverage (cost)
6. Dental? Prescription? Vision?
7. Retirement? 40lK? Employer Matching Contribution
8. Deductable amounts?
9. Lifetime limits on certain coverage
10. Limits on physicians you can utilize (HMO)
11. Paid Time Off
Of course salary and benefits are NOT covered in your initial interview, but you need answers to these vitally important questions BEFORE you accept a position. Often times you can call into the company and speak with the Benefits Manager or you can request a copy of their benefit package which will answer all these questions. With rising medical costs, it is often a good
decision to accept less money with a company who offers great benefits.
Barb Bruno, CPC, CTS