It’s that time of year, open enrollment season, the one-time per year to change your medical, dental, or vision plan. Don’t forget the other valuable job-based benefits during open enrollment such as flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), life insurance, disability insurance, legal insurance, and even veterinary insurance for your pet. Generally, you’re only allowed to make these changes during open enrollment. However, if you have a life event (birth, death, divorce, etc.) during another part of the year, you will be able to adjust your benefits at that time.

Some employers offer an automatic rollover. Many employees like this option because it requires no action during open enrollment because the employee defaults to carry the same benefit package from the current year to the following year. Nevertheless, it is best practice to attend the open enrollment meetings and review the packets in detail. The majority of the time benefits plans have changed drastically or may have minor tweaks that may affect you and your family’s plan coverage, cost, doctor, specialist, or drug brand.

Please do not wait until the final day of open enrollment to sign up for your benefits. It takes time to weigh all the options listed. Your family’s care and livelihood are critical. Making sure they have the best care in the most cost effective manner is what every employee must evaluate during Open Enrollment. It’s advise that you sit with an HR professional or Benefits Specialist that will provide tailored answers related to you and your family’s personal healthcare.