Published by Trustmark Voluntary Benefits on August 19th, 2020

The Coronavirus pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of our lives, and voluntary open enrollment will be no exception. Open enrollment has always been an important time to review your benefits and make sure that you’re well-protected for another year. In today’s COVID-19 world, it’s more important than ever to be prepared for open enrollment so that you can understand your options and choose the coverage that’s best for you and your family should the unexpected happen. Here are a few steps you can take to get started.



Re-assess your benefit needs

Before you make your benefits selections, it’s helpful to review your current major medical coverage and think about where you could use more protection. Start by assessing your premium and out-of-pocket costs as well as which medical services are covered. Then ask yourself how often you’ve used those services recently to help determine the value of your current coverage or if there are any gaps.

Once you’ve elected your medical coverage, you may have a chance to supplement your coverage with voluntary benefits. Voluntary benefits can provide all kinds of valuable protection, especially given the challenges of COVID-19. Be on the lookout for voluntary benefits that may offer you additional payments for hospital stays, protection for your paycheck if you’re unable to work, mental health benefits and even payments for routine tests and screenings. Enrolling in voluntary benefits is your chance to tailor your protection to your needs.

Monitor your email for open enrollment communications

In the past, your employer may have communicated about open enrollment through flyers, brochures or posters in addition to their digital communication. If you are used to being reminded of open enrollment through print materials around the office, in this work-from-home era it will be important for you to keep an eye on your email inbox for enrollment communications from your employer. If you struggle to keep track of your emails, try filing all enrollment related emails and communications in a separate folder to refer to later and set a reminder in your calendar to review them.

Take advantage of virtual information sessions or benefit counselor meetings

Whether you’re looking to keep your benefits the same or make changes, if the option is available, it’s always a good idea to meet one-on-one with a benefits counselor or attend an information session where you can learn about any coverage changes from your employer. With face-to-face options being limited due to COVID-19, many employers are conducting enrollments virtually via call centers and video conferences. Take advantage of these options if they are available to you so you can fully understand your benefits coverage and receive quick, thorough answers to any questions you may have from trained experts.

Pay close attention to changes in your benefits options

Due to the current health situation and its effect on the economy, some employers may be revisiting and making changes to their benefit offerings for employees. For some, this may look like offering more coverage for hospital stays, disability insurance or other areas to help cover health expenses. At the same time, some employers may reduce benefits coverage to help save money or adjust to a smaller workforce with different needs. Either way, it is important for you as an employee to make sure you’re aware of any changes to your current coverage or new benefits options so you can make the best decisions for you and your family.

2020 has opened our eyes to the importance protecting our health and finances. It’s more imperative now than ever to understand your coverage options and make informed choices during this year’s open enrollment season. Do your own homework to prepare yourself for voluntary open enrollment and be sure to take advantage of additional information and resources offered by your employer to set yourself up for success.