Open enrollment isn’t just about renewing what you already have — it’s also the best opportunity to add new benefits to your package. If you’ve been thinking about expanding what you offer employees, this is the time to act.
Dental and Vision Are Low-Hanging Fruit
If you offer medical but not dental and vision, you’re missing two of the most valued benefits among employees. Dental and vision plans are relatively inexpensive — often $20–50 per employee per month — and employees notice their absence. Adding them during open enrollment is straightforward and has an immediate impact on employee satisfaction.
Life Insurance Is Simpler Than You Think
Group term life insurance is one of the most cost-effective benefits available. Many carriers offer guaranteed-issue coverage (no medical underwriting required) for groups as small as two employees. A basic $50,000 term life policy often costs employers just a few dollars per employee per month.
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Disability coverage is chronically undervalued until someone needs it. For many employees — especially those without significant savings — a short-term disability policy that replaces 60% of income during recovery from surgery or illness is more valuable than many other benefits.
Mental Health and EAP Programs
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) provide confidential mental health support, counseling referrals, and other resources. Many are available for under $5 per employee per month, and employee utilization — and appreciation — has increased significantly in recent years.
Voluntary Benefits
Voluntary benefits (accident insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity) are employee-paid but employer-offered, meaning you provide access without the cost. They fill gaps in high-deductible plans and are increasingly popular.
Ready to expand your benefits package this open enrollment? Garden State Benefits can put together a comprehensive proposal at no cost to you.