If you’ve hired new employees since your last open enrollment, they may be approaching their first benefits election with your company. For many of them, it’s also their first time navigating employer-sponsored health insurance at all. Here’s how to set them up for success.
Don’t Assume Prior Knowledge
Even employees who have had health insurance before may not understand how deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums work. Open enrollment is especially confusing for younger employees or those who were previously on a parent’s or spouse’s plan.
Take the time to explain key concepts clearly — or better yet, provide a one-page glossary they can reference while making their selections.
Explain Your Contribution
Make sure new employees understand what you’re paying vs. what they’re paying. Many employees don’t realize how much of the premium their employer is covering. When they see the total premium vs. their payroll deduction, it often increases appreciation for the benefit.
Walk Through Each Plan Option
If you offer multiple plan options, don’t just hand employees a stack of benefit summaries. Walk them through the key differences: premium cost, deductible, copays, network, and any HSA or FSA options. Help them match the right plan to their situation.
Cover Dependent Enrollment
Employees with families need to know exactly who they can add to their coverage, what documentation is required (birth certificates, marriage certificates), and the deadlines for adding dependents. Missing this window can leave a family member uninsured for a full year.
Make Yourself Available
Open enrollment shouldn’t be a packet employees complete alone at home. Make yourself — or your broker — available to answer questions. A 15-minute conversation can prevent a year of coverage problems.
Garden State Benefits supports your employees directly during open enrollment. Contact us to learn how.