It’s officially open enrollment season, the busiest time of year for benefits renewals, new plans, and plenty of decision-making. So, how can you make sure you’re ready? Start by asking your benefits or insurance broker the right questions. Here are 11 to get you started.
Open Enrollment – Questions to Ask Your Broker
1: Are my current plans still the best fit?
Your team’s needs can change from year to year. Ask your broker if your current lineup still makes sense in terms of coverage and cost. Have them show you comparisons so you can see how your options stack up.
2: How can I balance cost and coverage?
It’s the classic question: how do you offer solid benefits without blowing your budget? Talk to your broker about different strategies like HMOs, High-Deductible Health Plans with HSAs, or even a multi-carrier exchange with defined contributions.
3: What provider networks are available?
Are networks broad enough for your team? Do they include the doctors and hospitals your employees prefer? Narrow networks can save money, but only if they still meet your employees’ needs.
4: Are any plan changes coming in 2026?
Ask early about potential changes to premiums, copays, or networks. If benefits are shifting, you’ll want time to review your options, not scramble at the last minute.
5: Are there any new compliance or regulation updates I should know about?
Rules change all the time. Your broker should keep you up to speed on new state and federal requirements so you stay compliant.
6: How can I help employees understand their benefits better?
Even the best plan doesn’t help if employees don’t use it. See if your broker offers comparison tools, webinars, or one-on-one help to boost participation and understanding.
7: What cost-saving opportunities am I missing?
Ask about wellness perks or programs that might be hiding in your current plan. For example, some carriers offer gym discounts or tax-saving accounts like FSAs and HSAs. A few small adjustments could mean big savings for you and your team.
8: What about dental, vision, or life insurance?
Ancillary benefits can make a big difference. Ask what’s available, how much they cost, and whether you can offer them voluntarily. Sometimes bundling saves money, too.
9: How do we handle remote or out-of-state employees?
If your workforce is spread out, confirm how enrollment will work — online, on paper, or both. Make sure all employees have equal access to coverage.
10: Can my broker help navigate multi-state regulations?
Different states have different rules. Your broker should help you stay compliant across the board and make coverage simple for everyone, no matter where they’re located.
11: What tech tools can make enrollment easier?
Ask about online tools that simplify plan selection, reduce errors, and make open enrollment smoother for employees and HR alike. The right tech can save hours (and headaches).
Don’t stop at open enrollment. Your broker should be there for you year-round. If they can’t confidently answer these questions, it might be time to find someone who can.
If you don’t already have a broker, CaliforniaChoice makes it easy for you to search for one. Visit us online.
