Now that you’ve started working at your new job, make sure you take advantage of your company’s employee benefits. You will want to speak to your Human Resources department or your supervisor for specifics, but here are some general employee benefits.

Health Insurance—Things to keep in mind.

1. There are 3 types of health insurance usually offered by an employer. While most companies offer one type, some large companies may offer more than one.
   • Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Provides coverage through hospitals, doctors and other providers in the network. Treatment received outside of this network is not covered.
   • Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). This is similar to a HMO but with this plan you have a choice of medical providers. You can get treated by doctors outside of the PPO group, but will be charged a much higher rate.
   • Point of Service Plan (POS). Combines elements of both HMOs and PPOs. There is a network of doctors that you can choose from, and if you get treatment outside of the network you will be charged up front. This plan will reimburse you for any charges you pay up front. 
2. Many employee plans can take up to 90 days before you are fully enrolled, so you will want to begin the process as soon as possible.
3. Some companies have plans that will cover members of your family, so ask your human resources person or your supervisor to find out the details.
4. Make sure to get the specifics on your companies plan including details on things like co-pay, reimbursements and how to enroll. Each plan will be unique.

401(K)—What is it?

A 401(k) is a retirement savings account set up by your company that allows you to take money from your check each pay period and save it tax free for your retirement. The employer will usually match a percentage of what you put in each pay period. Get a full description of the 401(k) plan now.