Before You Log Off For The Holidays: Five Small Year-End Benefits Reminders with Big Impact
As the year winds down and inboxes are set to “out of office”, there’s one last simple thing employers can encourage teams to do before fully logging off for the holidays: a quick benefits check.
A short review now helps employees understand and use what is available to them—and helps employers to get more value from the benefits they’ve invested in.
Here are five employee benefits items worth reminding employees to check before year-end:
1. Benefits That Reset on January 1
Not all, but several benefit plans reset annually. This often includes:
- Paramedical services (physiotherapy, massage, chiropractic care)
- Mental health coverage
- Vision and dental maximums
- Health or wellness spending accounts
Year-end reminders can prompt employees to book appointments they’ve been postponing and avoid unused coverage expiring on December 31.
2. Unused Health or Wellness Spending Dollars
Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) and Wellness Spending Accounts (WSAs) are highly valued—but frequently underused.
Employers may want to remind employees to:
- Check remaining balances
- Review eligible expenses
- Confirm claim submission deadlines
Encouraging employees to use these accounts improves perceived plan value without increasing employer cost.
3. Beneficiary and Dependent Information
Life changes often happen mid-year, while benefits information stays untouched.
Year-end is a natural time for employees to review:
- Beneficiary designations
- Dependent eligibility and coverage
- Personal information accuracy
Proactive reminders can help reduce administrative issues and ensure coverage reflects employees’ current circumstances.
4. Underused Benefits and Support Services
Many benefit plans include services employees don’t realize they have access to, such as:
- Virtual healthcare or telemedicine
- Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP)
- Mental health tools or coaching
- Travel insurance or preventative care programs
Highlighting these services can increase utilization, support wellbeing, and reinforce your organization’s commitment to employee care.
5. Changes Effective in the New Year
If benefit updates take effect January 1, year-end communication helps set expectations.
Consider flagging:
- Plan enhancements or changes
- Updated providers or digital tools
- New resources available in the coming year
Clear communication reduces confusion and builds trust heading into the new plan year.
Employee benefits are an appreciated investment. A brief year-end review helps employees feel supported and ensures your benefit program is working and being put to use.A simple reminder before the holidays can go a long way—helping employees log off with peace of mind and start the new year informed and prepared.
Happy Holidays! Wishing everyone a peaceful, healthy, and safe holiday season.
