The start of a new year is the perfect time to make sure you’re ready to get the most out of your benefits. Whether you made adjustments during open enrollment or retained your existing coverage, taking a few proactive steps now can help you avoid surprises, reduce costs and maximize the value of your benefits throughout the year.
This article provides 10 steps for managing your benefits plan at the start of the year.
1. Review Your Plan Details
Even if you made thoughtful choices during enrollment, it’s a good idea to revisit your plan documents to refresh your memory. These resources outline what’s covered, what’s not and what you’ll pay out of pocket. This review should include the following:
- Check deductibles, copays and coinsurance amounts.
- Review voluntary benefits, such as dental, vision or supplemental coverage.
- Note annual limits or coverage caps.
- Confirm your information is correct and report any errors early.
2. Verify Your Provider Network
Using in-network providers is one of the easiest ways to save money. Start the year by:
- Confirming your primary care doctor, specialists and local hospitals are in-network
- Checking prescription coverage and preferred pharmacies
- Finding new providers if you’ve moved or want to switch doctors
These actions can help you avoid unexpected charges for doctor visits or prescriptions.
3. Complete Any Required Follow-Ups
Some benefits require extra steps after enrollment. Common tasks include the following:
- Updating beneficiaries for life insurance or retirement accounts
- Submitting dependent eligibility documents
- Signing or returning forms to finalize elections
Overlooking these small but critical steps can cause delays or even result in lost coverage, making it essential to complete them now.
4. Confirm You Received Your ID Cards
Health, dental, vision and prescription plans typically issue new ID cards annually. Make sure you:
- Keep physical cards in your wallet and download digital versions in your plan’s app.
- Verify that your name, plan number and group number are correct.
- Contact HR or your insurance provider if cards haven’t arrived within a few weeks.
Having your card ready when you need care can prevent delays and billing issues.
5. Set Up Online Accounts and Mobile Apps
Most benefit providers offer online portals and apps packed with helpful tools. Take a few minutes to:
- Check claims and track deductible progress.
- Find providers and estimate costs for services.
- Access digital ID cards quickly.
- Explore wellness resources, such as nurse hotlines, mental health apps or health assessments.
6. Schedule Preventive Care
Preventive services are often covered at no cost and keep you healthy. Start the year by:
- Booking your annual physical or wellness exam
- Scheduling screenings like cholesterol checks, blood pressure tests or mammograms (as recommended) Making dental and vision appointments
- Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to maximize the value of your plan while maintaining good health.
7. Create a Benefits Budget
Plan ahead for health-related expenses by:
- Estimating premiums, copays, prescriptions and other costs
- Mapping out how you’ll use funds in your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), if applicable
- Setting aside money for unexpected health expenses
Having a benefits budget can help you avoid being caught off guard and get the most from tax-advantaged accounts.
8. Explore Additional Resources
Your benefits may include more than health coverage. Take time to:
- Learn about employee assistance programs for counseling, legal assistance or financial advice.
- Improve your health care literacy with educational tools from your provider.
- Discover wellness programs, fitness discounts and mental health resources.
9. Review HSA, FSA and Other Health Spending Accounts
Whether you’ve just opened an HSA or FSA or want to maximize one you already have, using it strategically is key. Start the year by taking the following steps:
- Learn how to access your account. Download your provider’s app or bookmark the portal for easy management.
- Log in and check your balance. Know how much you have available and confirm your contributions for the year. If you have an HSA, you may be eligible to invest your savings.
- Review the rules. FSA funds typically have a “use-it-or-lose-it” rule, so plan how you’ll spend them before the deadline. HSA funds roll over year to year and can even be invested for long-term growth.
Taking these steps can ensure you’re not leaving money on the table and help you maximize tax advantages while planning for both short-term and long-term health expenses.
10. Understand Rising Health Care Costs
Health care costs have been climbing steadily, driven by higher prescription drug prices, increased demand for health services, and rising labor and technology costs. Consider the following actions to make informed decisions that can reduce health care expenses:
- Review prescription prices and consider generic alternatives to save money.
- Compare costs for common services and procedures to find more affordable options.
- Learn about which health care providers are in-network under your plan.
Conclusion
Starting the year with these steps can enable you to maximize your benefits. By reviewing your coverage, scheduling care and exploring available resources, you’ll be prepared to make informed, cost-effective decisions throughout the year. If you have questions, reach out to your HR or benefits team.
This Know Your Benefits article is to be used for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of an insurance professional. © 2026 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved
