7 Benefits That Add Value for Employees

MILWAUKEE, March 16, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Northwestern Mutual: When an individual decides whether or not to accept a job offer, they often consider more than just the base salary—they also consider the value of the entire compensation package, which may include additional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, flexible time off, and employee discount programs. Offering great benefits can reduce employee turnover, help employees save money, and make them feel valued by their employer. The following are seven notable benefits that can add value for employees.

Great medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employers can cover up to 100% of the cost of medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees, and any remaining cost not covered by the employer can be paid pre-tax by the employee. That is, the employee's cost can be taken out of their paycheck before state and federal taxes.

Healthcare costs can add up. Providing employees with more coverage and great insurance can make health-related expenses more affordable. Offering 100% paid health, dental, and vision can be a great way to attract and retain employees. 

Life insurance

Employers can also offer life insurance as an employee benefit. Life insurance can provide an employee's family with financial security if they pass away. Designated beneficiaries can use the death benefit from life insurance towards anything, including the costs of any medical bills, debts, or living expenses.

FSAs and HSAs

Flexible savings accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) are accounts that allow employees to use pre-tax dollars for health-related expenses, such as medical supplies, copays, or other medical expenses. Individuals can only participate in either of these accounts if they are offered through their employer, which is why they can add a lot of value for employees.

Transit benefits

Transit benefits allow employees to contribute pre-tax dollars toward the cost of commuting, including the cost of parking, train and bus tickets, and subway fares. Like other pre-tax benefits, transit benefits can lower the tax burden for employees.

Flexible time off

More companies are switching from paid time off policies (PTO) to flexible time off policies (FTO). FTO does not limit the number of vacation days an employee is allowed to take during the year. This gives an employee the freedom to plan more vacation time or occasional days off to recharge which can reduce burnout and strengthen mental health.

401(k) matching

Employers can offer to match the contributions an employee makes to their 401(k)—or other retirement account—up to a certain percentage. This can enable employees to invest more in their retirement accounts. Many employees see a 401(k) match as part of their overall compensation package, so it can be a draw when trying to attract talent. 

Employee discount programs

Employers may also offer discount programs for employees. Discount programs can be for the product or service the company sells, or for more general expenses such as phone bills, vacations, and shopping at select retail stores.

Overall, employees value more than just their salaries. The benefits an employer offers can create a better work environment by increasing employee satisfaction through additional savings on each paycheck and potentially higher earnings over time.