Ask These Benefits Questions Before You Take the Job

benefits

Looking for a new job? At the top of your list is probably salary. But did you know that other benefits actually account for about 30 percent of your total compensation? It’s true! In fact, when you’re considering your overall well-being, salary is only one part of the equation. Other perks and benefits offered by your potential employer will make a job that much better because you’ll have the resources to take good care of yourself and your family.

When you’re in search of jobs, the following ten benefits are helpful to your overall job satisfaction:

1. Health care benefits.

This can include medical, dental and vision coverage. Usually, you’ll need to elect a medical plan, and then choose to include dental and vision coverage within it. This will help you pay for any visits you may need to the doctor or hospital, prescriptions, clinical lab tests, etc. You may have the choice of different types of plans that might include a copay plan (where you need to meet an annual deductible and then cover a small copay when you visit the doctor) or a high-deductible plan (where you’ll need to meet a larger annual deductible and will then be responsible for a percentage of the cost of your care).

2. Spending accounts.

It depends on the health care plan, but you may have the choice of a Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) or Flexible Spending Account FSA). These are special accounts that either you, your employer, or both will contribute money into. Then, you can use these funds for health-related expenses, as described in the benefits plan.

3. Life insurance.

In the event that something happens to you, it’s important to be sure your family will be taken care of financially. You’ll need to contribute funds to the plan and select “beneficiaries” (the people who will receive money from your life insurance policy).

4. Disability insurance.

If you’re injured (from something that’s not job-related), it helps to know you’ll still have a source of income while you’re unable to work. Disability insurance offers peace of mind that your expenses can be covered while you’re on the mend.

5. 401(k) retirement fund.

You’re working to pay current expenses, but it always helps to save for the future. Your 401(k) is a way to rest assured you’ll have money for your expenses once you’ve completed your career.

6. Paid time off.

It helps to take time to rest and relax now and then. It’s good for your mental and physical health, and important for your overall happiness. Paid time off includes holidays, sick days and vacation time, and it’s an important part of any benefits package.

7. Flexible work options.

Will you be able to work from home? Can you adjust your start time, or make up hours if you have an appointment during the day? Flexible scheduling helps you keep up with personal commitments while fitting in all your work hours.

Having trouble finding a job with the right benefits?

No worries—HireCall can help. To learn more about available jobs, check out our job search page today!