FINANCE

Don't Miss These Small Details During Open Enrollment

USAWed Nov 13 2024
When it's time to pick your insurance plans at work, everyone tends to focus on the big stuff like premiums and deductibles. But it's the smaller details that can cause real headaches. For instance, life insurance is usually a no-brainer—a free policy with no premiums? Check! But hold up, there's more to it than just ticking that box. You need to name beneficiaries, or who gets the money if you're no longer around. It sounds obvious, right? But many people forget this crucial step. If you die without naming a beneficiary, your family could end up in a costly legal battle. So, what should you do? Name your spouse as the primary beneficiary, and maybe even set up a trust for your kids. That way, the money goes straight to their future college fund or whatever you plan for it, without any legal hassle. And while you're at it, be cautious about extra insurance plans. You don't want to sign up for something you don't need and waste money. It's all about making smart choices during open enrollment.

questions

    What alternative can parents use instead of naming a minor as a direct beneficiary of a life insurance policy?
    Why might opting into a workplace life insurance policy without designating beneficiaries be problematic?
    What steps can employees take to ensure they do not overlook critical details like beneficiary designations during open enrollment?

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