While your base salary is undeniably important, employee benefits are a crucial component of your total compensation package. These benefits go beyond just a paycheck; they offer essential security measures like health insurance and disability coverage, contributing significantly to your overall well-being and work-life balance.
Practically every workplace has benefits for its employees. These advantages are so important that around 40% of workers are willing to abandon their current jobs for another that offers better.
But what about when you can't seem to make sense of them in the first place? Making a stop at an employee benefits attorney's office may be a great idea. These legal pros can help you with the following:
Understanding Your Employee Benefits Program
Your workplace benefits can come shrouded in legalese that can leave you confused. An attorney can translate these documents for you, explaining things like:
Eligibility Requirements
Who qualifies for each benefit? Are there any waiting periods before you can use them?
Your Specific Coverage Details
What exactly does your health insurance plan cover? What are your out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles and co-pays?
Your Rights as a Beneficiary
Who inherits your life insurance if something happens to you? Can you designate a beneficiary for your retirement savings?
Navigating Claim Denials
You wake up one morning to a surprise bill for a medical procedure your insurance company denied. You might be confused and frustrated, unsure why it was denied and what to do next.
Getting employee benefits attorneys on your case can go a long way in such situations. They can:
Review Your Plan Documents
They'll check if the denied service is actually covered under your employee benefits plan.
Analyze the Reason for Denial
Sometimes, denials happen because of paperwork errors; an attorney can identify these mistakes and help you correct them. If the denial seems unfair, you have the right to appeal. A lawyer can walk you through the steps involved and help you craft a strong appeal letter.
COBRA Continuation
Life throws curveballs sometimes. Maybe you lose your job or experience a reduction in hours. In these situations, you might worry about losing your health insurance.
The good news is that a law called COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) allows certain individuals to continue health insurance coverage after qualifying events. However, it can be expensive, and the enrollment process can be confusing.
In this case, an attorney can:
Explain Your COBRA Eligibility
Do you qualify for COBRA based on your job loss? How long can you continue coverage?
Help You Understand the Costs
COBRA premiums are typically higher than what you paid while employed. For perspective, you've got to pay the group premium rates out of pocket and a 2% administrative fee on top.
An attorney can help you make sense of the costs involved and explore alternative health insurance options if needed.
Disability Benefits
A serious illness or injury can prevent you from working. Not to mention, the financial pressure that comes with this new development can be crushing. Getting employee benefits attorneys on your case can do a world of good for you. These legal professionals can help you with the following:
Gathering Documentation
Disability claims often require a lot of paperwork, including medical records and proof of your income. An attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation to strengthen your claim.
Legal Representation
If your initial claim gets denied, an attorney can represent you at the appeal hearing and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Remember: don't wait until you need disability benefits to learn about your options. An attorney can review your disability plan in advance and advise you on any potential gaps in coverage.
Retirement Planning
Your golden years should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not a time to worry about finances. Employee benefits plans often include retirement savings plans like 401(k)s.
These plans offer tax advantages and can help you accumulate a nest egg for the future. However, with different investment options and contribution limits in place, knowing the ins and outs of retirement plans can be quite a challenge. An attorney can:
Explain Your Options
They can break down the different investment choices available in your pension plans and help you select the ones that align with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Maximize Your Contributions
Many employers offer matching contributions for your retirement savings. An attorney can ensure you're contributing enough to take full advantage of your employer's match.
FMLA Leave
The FMLA, or Family and Medical Leave Act, is a law that basically allows you to take unpaid leave for reasons such as caring for a newborn child or a sick family member.
In such cases, employee benefits lawyers can help you with:
Understanding Eligibility
Do you qualify for FMLA leave based on your work history and the reason for leave?
Job Security
The FMLA guarantees your job will be protected while you're on leave. An attorney can advise you on your rights if you experience any issues upon returning to work.
In Closing
Yes, workplace benefits may not always be black and white. That's why engaging employee benefits lawyers can help you know your options and fight for what you deserve. Reach out to one you trust today and see the difference it makes.
