Open enrollment guide · Updated Oct 27, 2026

How to Read Your Benefits Guide: The 10 Numbers That Matter

1. Premium per paycheck for your coverage tier (you only, + spouse, + children, family). Usually a table near the front.
2. Deductible: individual and family, in-network.
3. Out-of-pocket maximum: the most you pay in a year for covered in-network care.
4. Coinsurance: your share after the deductible (e.g., 20%).
5. Copays: primary care, specialist, urgent care, ER.
6. Prescription tiers: generic / preferred / specialty costs.
7. Employer HSA or HRA contribution: free money; check if it's paid per paycheck or up front.
8. 401(k) match formula: e.g., "100% of the first 3% and 50% of the next 2%". Contribute at least enough to get it all.
9. FSA / DCFSA availability and deadlines.
10. Life and disability: what's free (basic) vs what you pay for (supplemental).

Watch for

• "Embedded" vs "aggregate" family deductibles on HDHPs.
• Spousal surcharges if your spouse could get coverage at their job.
• Tobacco surcharges and wellness credits that change the real premium.

Shortcut: drag the PDF into Know Your Benefits Full. It finds premiums, deductibles, OOP max, HSA money and your match, then asks you to confirm each one.