Examine the options for your company’s health insurance.

When I was shopping for a new plan in health insurance, I saved $3,000 over the years. After much research, my wife and I chose a plan that offered higher premiums and lower out-of pocket costs to have our child. We were $3,000 more financially secure after signing up for an indemnity policy and the $1,000 bonus we received for signing up.

Must Read: hearth insurance

What was the time it took to do this? It took 1 hour of research and planning. This is an excellent hourly rate.

Many corporate executives and top-level managers prefer to stick with the status quo over looking into the details. I get it.

The Right Health Plan is a Top Priority

Let’s take a look at three types of common health insurance. Let’s see how they work. A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), plan is usually the most affordable but with the least flexibility. HMOs are contracts that allow a group of doctors to provide medical care. They emphasize cost control and preventive care in order to offer low premiums as well as lower out-of-pocket costs. To coordinate care, keep costs down and to see other doctors within the network, you will need to work closely with your primary doctor, except in emergencies. To see a specialist, you will need a referral.

A Preferred Provider Organization is an association that includes medical providers. The PPO works with insurance companies to offer discounted services. This helps keep costs down when you are seeking care in this network. A PPO allows you to go wherever you want, without the need for a referral. However, there will likely be higher out-of pocket costs.

Never Miss: normal liability insurance coverage policy policies plan

Register for Disability Insurance

There are two types, short-term and long-term, of disability insurance coverage. Numerous companies offer a group benefit for employees at no cost. Individuals may choose to pay out-of-pocket for this coverage.

No matter what your choice, long-term disability insurance is a great option for working professionals. This is not something you should ignore as you will never be disabled. Car accidents can occur at any moment, and could affect your vision, hearing, and cognitive abilities. LLIS shows that a 30-year old is four times more likely to be disabled than to die in an accident before the age of 65.

Also Read: health including insurance coverage

Choose the Right Life Insurance Amount

Life insurance is almost always necessary if your family relies on you for income.

As a group benefit, many employers offer a minimum amount of money — typically 1x-3x your salary. While this is a good start, you’ll likely need more if your family has children or a mortgage. How much? The simple rule of thumb to cover debts, ongoing income for family members who are still living, and education costs for children is to keep your earnings between 10x-12x. A financial professional can perform detailed, customized calculations for you.

Many companies offer additional insurance to their employees. This is a great benefit for people who are not eligible for private policies. A policy purchased from an outside company is a good option for healthy people. You can save money and it will be transferable if your job is terminated.

Do not miss out on any additional benefits

Companies are offering significant benefits that were not previously part of their traditional offerings.

According to the MassMutual Financial Wellness Trends Study (February 2020), 6 out of 10 companies offer or have implemented financial wellbeing programs. Some employers offer counseling, vacation buy up plans, dependent care, Flexible Spending Accounts, tuition reimbursement and other specialized benefits.

Most Popular: private health insurance why you need it

Open enrollment can slip up during busy times of the year. Take one hour to review your options and make informed choices about your benefits. Consult a specialist to ensure that this area of your financial planning is well-organized.