Why offer voluntary benefits

Q: How can I find the time and resources to manage a voluntary benefits program?

A: Your role can be limited to providing access in the workplace so employees can learn about their options and make selections. Washington National is fully responsible for helping employees choose, enroll in and maintain their coverage.

Q: Some of my employees have health issues. How can I get coverage options for them?

A: One solution is to offer group products, which can be underwritten on a guarantee-issue basis, so all employees—even those with health conditions—can receive coverage. Washington National offers several types of group products, including accident and short-term disability, critical illness, term life, and universal life. Voluntary benefit programs can include two kinds of plans—group and individual—both at affordable rates.

In brief, group products usually have lower premiums, because the risk is shared by a larger pool of people. Individual products let each employee select a coverage amount to meet his or her needs and budget. Employees can select a specific coverage level, such as $10,000, or they can choose a coverage level based on their budgeted premium payment, such as $15 per week.

Q: How do a introduce a voluntary benefits program to employees? What if they are not interested?

A: Washington National is here to help. We have the personnel, materials and resources to educate employees about their healthcare benefits. We also work with them individually to select the right coverage for their situation.

Most benefits can be used to pay out-of-pocket costs that aren’t covered by major medical plans. Employees tend to appreciate paying just a small amount each week to ensure they’re prepared for and protected from the unexpected.