In today's job market, finding employment can take several months or even years.

Landing a position that matches your needs and skills is quite the achievement — especially if it comes with an attractive salary.

Before you accept the job offer, however, it's important to evaluate the employee benefits package first.

This will make up a significant percentage of your total compensation.

Here's how to choose the best benefits package for you.

 

Find Out What the Benefits Pack Covers

Take your time to go over all the details to ensure that your priorities are in your benefits package.

These details will let you know whether to accept the job offer or to wait and negotiate.

The following should be your primary considerations.

 

Health Insurance

Your health should always take top priority.

It can affect your career, especially if you sustain permanent injuries or end up requiring lifelong medication.

This is why it's essential to know what your health insurance will cover.

This includes:

• money you will get for medication
• compensation for lost wages when away from work
• compensation for injuries sustained in the line of duty

If you require regular hospital visits or have a family member who needs medical care from time to time, find out whether your employer will offer you sick leave.
 

Holiday Pay

Holiday pay is another essential consideration.

Find out whether your would-be employer expect you to work on holidays.

Then make sure they offer adequate additional compensation for that.
 

Vacation Pay

Double check if your offer includes paid time off (PTO). 

This is the number of days you're allowed to take a leave while still receiving pay from work.

Some employers offer a reasonable to generous number of days.

However, some don't, so always make sure to get this number of days in writing. 

 

Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Benefits Package

Before accepting to work for a particular company, don't forget to ask about:

• the individual and family coverage
• the retirement package offer

Ask your employer how premium deductions will go, how much it will be per month, and when the coverage will begin.

Then, find out how much the company will contribute to their retirement program and when you can benefit from it.

It would help to wait until you have a good job offer to discuss these employee benefits.

 

Bottom Line

After receiving a job offer, take time to review the benefits your prospective employer is offering.

Find out what benefits you're responsible for and calculate how much they will cost you per year.

This will enable you to make an informed decision before taking on your new job.