Written by: Steffen deGraaf

Group Benefits Consultant, AEC Benefits

Introduction

Your group benefits plan is more than just an add-on to your salary—it’s a valuable tool that can help you save money, improve your health, and enhance your overall well-being. Yet, many employees don’t fully utilize their benefits, leaving valuable perks on the table.

If you’re not making the most of your benefits, you’re likely paying out-of-pocket for expenses that could be covered. This guide will help you understand hidden benefits, stretch your benefits dollars, and take full advantage of wellness programs to maximize the value of your group benefits plan.

What You’ll Learn:

✔ Common benefits employees don’t fully use
✔ How to stretch your benefits dollars further
✔ The importance of wellness programs and how to take advantage of them
✔ How to be proactive with your benefits plan

Let’s dive in!

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Table of Contents

1. Common Benefits Employees Don’t Fully Use
2. How to Stretch Your Benefits Dollars Further
3. The Importance of Wellness Programs
4. Proactive Steps to Maximize Your Plan
5. Conclusion

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1. Common Benefits Employees Don’t Fully Use

Most employees use their basic health and dental coverage, but many overlook additional benefits included in their plan. Here are some commonly underused perks:

✔ Paramedical Services – Coverage often includes massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and mental health support.

✔ Vision Care – Even if you don’t wear glasses, most plans cover eye exams, which are crucial for detecting health issues early.

✔ Prescription Drug Coverage – Some plans offer discounts on lifestyle medications, smoking cessation, or specialized treatments.

✔ Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) – If your plan includes an HSA, you can use it tax-free for medical expenses not covered by insurance.

✔ Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) – Free counseling, legal advice, and financial planning services are often included but rarely utilized.

📌 Pro Tip: Review your benefits booklet or check your provider’s portal to see exactly what’s covered—you might be missing out on valuable perks!

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2. How to Stretch Your Benefits Dollars Further

Even with great coverage, knowing how to manage your benefits wisely can help you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

✔ Use Generic Medications – Most plans cover generic drugs at 100%, while brand-name drugs often require co-pays.

✔ Split Major Dental Work Across Two Benefit Years – If you need major dental work, schedule part of it in December and the rest in January to maximize annual limits.

✔ Shop Around for Health Practitioners – Compare rates for services like physiotherapy or massage therapy, as some clinics charge less than others.

✔ Submit Claims Immediately – Don’t wait until the last minute to file claims—some plans have expiration dates on reimbursements.

✔ Take Advantage of Preventative Care – Regular check-ups, screenings, and exams prevent costly health issues down the road.

📌 Pro Tip: If your employer offers an HSA, use it strategically to cover expenses that your regular benefits don’t fully cover.

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3. The Importance of Wellness Programs

Wellness programs are often overlooked but incredibly valuable. Many companies invest in employee wellness initiatives, and taking advantage of them can improve your quality of life and even lower your healthcare costs.

What’s Included in a Wellness Program?

✔ Gym Membership Discounts – Some plans offer partial or full coverage for fitness memberships.

✔ Mental Health Support – Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) provide confidential counseling and therapy.

✔ Nutritional Counseling – Some plans include dietitian consultations to support overall health.

✔ Smoking Cessation & Weight Management Programs – Many benefits plans provide support for lifestyle improvements.

✔ Wellness Spending Accounts (WSAs) – Certain employers offer WSAs that allow employees to spend funds on wellness-related expenses like yoga, meditation, or home gym equipment.

📌 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether your company offers a wellness program, ask your HR department—many employees don’t realize these benefits are available to them.

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4. Proactive Steps to Maximize Your Plan

If you want to get the most out of your group benefits, here’s what you need to do:

✔ Review Your Benefits Plan Annually – Make sure you’re aware of any changes and take full advantage of new offerings.

✔ Use Your Benefits Before They Expire – Many benefits reset annually—don’t let unused dollars go to waste!

✔ Coordinate Benefits with Your Spouse’s Plan – If both you and your spouse have benefits, you can combine coverage for better reimbursement.

✔ Set Up Direct Billing When Possible – Avoid out-of-pocket costs by choosing providers that offer direct billing to your insurance.

✔ Ask Questions – If you’re unsure about something, speak to your HR team or benefits provider—they’re there to help!

📌 Pro Tip: Some benefits allow carrying over unused funds—check if your plan offers this to avoid missing out!

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5. Conclusion: Get the Most from Your Benefits Plan

Your group benefits plan is there to support your health, finances, and well-being—but it only works if you actively use it. Many employees miss out on valuable perks, leaving money on the table.

✔ Know what’s covered—don’t assume you only have basic health and dental!

✔ Use your benefits wisely—maximize your annual limits and take advantage of preventative care.

✔ Tap into wellness programs—these extras can make a huge difference in your well-being.

✔ Stay informed—review your plan every year and ask questions.

📞 Want to make the most of your group benefits? Let’s chat!
✅ Book a Free Benefits Review Today