Flexible Benefits Program
WELLNESS, HEALTH AND TOTAL REWARDS
Flexible Benefits Programs, also known as Flexible Benefits Plans or Cafeteria Benefit Plans, are employee compensation packages that allow employees to choose from a range of benefit options according to their individual needs and preferences. These programs provide employees with the flexibility to allocate their compensation towards various benefits, which can include health insurance, retirement savings, wellness programs, and more. In the Philippines, flexible benefits programs are becoming more popular as employers seek to offer personalized benefits to their diverse workforce
Customized Benefit Selection
With flexible benefit programs, employees are given a set amount of “credits” or a “benefit budget” that they can allocate among various benefit options. These options may include health insurance plans, life insurance, retirement plans, dental coverage, wellness programs, transportation allowances, and more.
Employee Choice
Employees can choose the benefits that best suit their individual needs and circumstances. For example, an employee with a family might opt for comprehensive health insurance and additional life insurance coverage, while a younger employee might prioritize contributions to a retirement fund.
Tax Advantages
In some cases, contributions made to certain benefit options within a flexible benefit program can have tax advantages, as they might be deducted from the employee’s taxable income.
Voluntary and Mandatory Benefits
Flexible benefit programs can include both voluntary benefits (where employees choose to participate) and mandatory benefits (where employees are required to allocate a portion of their credits to certain options, such as basic health coverage).
Changes and Adjustments
Depending on the plan rules, employees might have the opportunity to change their benefit selections during designated enrollment periods, or in response to life events like marriage, birth, or adoption.
Communication and Education
Employers often provide educational materials and support to help employees understand their benefit options and make informed decisions.
Administrative Ease
While offering choices to employees, flexible benefits programs can simplify benefits administration for employers, as they can provide a unified platform for benefits enrollment and management.
Cost Containment
Flexible benefit programs can help employers manage costs by giving them more control over the range of benefits offered and the budget allocated to each employee.
Employee Satisfaction and Engagement
These programs can enhance employee satisfaction by tailoring benefits to individual needs, which can contribute to higher morale and engagement.
Compliance
Employers need to ensure that their flexible benefit programs comply with labor laws and regulations in the Philippines.
Why do companies create a Flexible Benefits Program?
- There is no “One-Size-Fits-All” when it comes to benefits
- Traditional benefits somehow become boring to employees, so why not change the game?
- As the workforce’s diversity increases – from age, hobbies, and life priorities – traditional benefits are getting obsolete
- Companies are at war on talent – both in hiring and retaining good employees
- A study on benefits vs higher salary: 80% of the employees prefer jobs with additional benefits over an identical job that offers 30% more salary with no benefits
- Ensures employees are getting benefits that are most important to them; and choose what tickles their fancies
It’s important to note that the specifics of flexible benefits programs can vary widely based on the company’s size, industry, budget, and goals. If you’re interested in implementing a flexible benefits program in your organization or if you’re an employee looking to understand your options, consulting with human resources professionals or benefits consultants in the Philippines can provide valuable guidance.
For inquiries:
Talk to our Employee Benefit Consultants
Email us at: eb@wellnesshealthandtotalrewards.com