A note pad sits on a desk with the words "employee benefits" written on it. A red pencil is sitting on the desk next to it.

Checklist: Employee Benefits During a Job Search

Many employers offer employees benefits beyond what they are required to under the law. When searching for a new job, it can be useful to understand and review potential benefits beyond a salary.

Employee benefits can include:

  • Insurance (e.g., health, dental, vision, short or long-term disability, life, supplemental, etc.)
  • Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Savings Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Retirement Plans
  • Legal and Estate Planning Services
  • Employee Discount and Support Programs

For more information, read our Checklist to Making the Most of Employee Benefits During Open Enrollment.

Ask to See a Breakdown of all Benefits

Benefits have an added value to your total compensation package. But, timing is everything. It is not recommended to ask about employee benefits during the first interview. It is more appropriate to ask these questions as you advance in the hiring process. You may also find information about benefits in the job description or on a company’s website.

Is there a waiting period for any benefits?

New employees often have to wait 30-90 days for benefits to begin. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) limited the waiting period for health insurance benefits to 90 days.

Does the health plan cover your providers and prescription drugs?

For more information, explore our Health Insurance Topics Page.A health insurance policy sits on a desk with a foam heart, pair of glasses, and a pen on top of it.

  • Tip: To avoid a gap in care, ask your current providers for a list of plans they accept. It is possible to encourage your providers to join a plan’s network if they are not currently members. If you receive care from out-of-network providers, you will have higher out-of-pocket costs. You are also not required to take a new employer’s health insurance coverage. You can keep COBRA or check other health insurance options, such as a Marketplace plan, that may offer better coverage than a new employer’s plan.
  • Tip: Also check your out-of-pocket costs under a new employer’s plan as well as the monthly premium cost.

Can you transfer your retirement account funds?

  • Review your options for moving any retirement funds to your new employer’s plan or an individual retirement account. Talk with a financial planner to understand options.

What are the rules about taking time off work and job protection?

If you need to take time off work for your own medical condition or care for a family member, review a new employer’s policies. Also, laws apply to different-sized employers. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to private employers with 15+ employees, but state laws may cover smaller employers. The Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) applies to private employers with 50+ employees. Employers may offer time off beyond the legal minimum, such as paid sick time, vacation, or general time off. Employers may allow co-workers to donate leave to each other.

  • Tip: Ask how your job might be protected and how your benefits would still be available if you need to take time off work, such as when you go out on disability leave.

Ask for Information About Other Employer-specific Programs

  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) – larger employers support ERGs to connect co-workers dedicated to certain causes. There may be a cancer support ERG for employees diagnosed with cancer. These ERGs share resources and can influence company policies. It is important to make conscious decisions about disclosing your medical information to an employer. Read our Quick Guide to Privacy, Disclosure, & Medical Certification Forms.
  • Employee emergency support grants – employers may have funds from which employees in need may request grants.

For more information, visit TriageCancer.org & CancerFinances.org.

Last reviewed for updates: 01/2022

Disclaimer: This handout is intended to provide general information on the topics presented. It is provided with the understanding that Triage Cancer is not engaged in rendering any legal, medical, or professional services by its publication or distribution. Although this content was reviewed by a professional, it should not be used as a substitute for professional services. © Triage Cancer 2022

Sharing Triage Cancer's Checklist: Employee Benefits During a Job Search

We're glad you find this resource helpful! Please feel free to share it with your communities or to post a link on your organization's website. However, this content may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the express permission of Triage Cancer. Please email us at info@TriageCancer.org to request permission.

This Quick Guide can be downloaded and printed for free. If you are a health care professional, we provide free, bulk copies of many of our resources. To make a request, visit TriageCancer.org/MaterialRequest.