Unpacking Your Perks: Making the Most of Your Employee Benefits with Christy Smith, Ep 155

Ever feel like your employee benefits package is a mystery? You're not alone! In this episode, Bri sits down with benefits expert Christy Smith from The Horton Group, a Marsh & McLennan Agency, to demystify the world of workplace perks. Christy, who has extensive experience in HR and as an employee benefits broker, shares insights on everything from health, dental, and vision insurance to the often-overlooked benefits like disability and legal support. Get ready to learn how to ask your HR team for new benefits (yes, you can do that!) 2, why understanding your options is crucial, and the surprising ways some companies are making benefits more inclusive (think doggy daycare!). Plus, we dive deep into the power of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and why they might be your secret weapon for retirement savings. Tune in and empower yourself to make the most of your workplace benefits!Timestamps:- 00:52: Christy's journey from HR to employee benefits broker.- 02:24: Common misconceptions about workplace benefits and how to approach your HR team.- 06:41: Navigating multiple health plan choices and software to assist in decisions.- 09:50: The evolution of vision and dental insurance.- 13:17: Inclusive benefits like "doggy daycare" and pet insurance.- 15:56: The importance of understanding company culture for tailored benefits.- 18:48: Deep dive into short-term and long-term disability, including state-paid leave benefits.- 23:14: Understanding legal benefits and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).- 27:50: The one employee benefit Christy wishes everyone would maximize (hint: it's about retirement!).- 33:28: Key advice for open enrollment season.Connect with Christy:- LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-smith-cebs-49283810 - The Horton Group, a Marsh & McLennan Agency https://www.thehortongroup.com/ Connect with Us:Ready to work on building better financial habits? Connect with our financial planning team at childfreewealth.com or learn more about estate planning at childfreetrust.com.Follow Childfree Life by Design on your favorite podcast platform and join the conversation on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childfreeinsightsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChildfreeInsights/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/childfreeinsightsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChildfreeInsightsDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes. Please consult your advisor before implementing any ideas heard on this podcast.