Employees often turn to their human resources department first when they have questions about benefits, especially during major life transitions. These questions go beyond policy details; they’re connected to deeply personal moments that don’t always align with the open enrollment calendar, which is why significant events like marriage, divorce, or retirement are considered qualifying life events (QLEs). These events allow employees to make changes to their benefits outside of the official enrollment period.
QLE Benefit Conversations
If an employee asks about their benefit options due to a QLE, consider tailoring your tone and response to what’s happening in their life. These moments are often emotionally significant, and a thoughtful approach can help employees feel supported and confident as they make informed decisions that meet both their current and future benefit needs.
Here are some examples to guide those conversations:
Joyful Milestones (e.g., marriage)
“Congratulations! I know you’re excited for the big day. When planning to add a spouse to your benefits, I recommend sitting down together to review the plans and ensure you’re both receiving the right amount of coverage. Once you’re officially married, you’ll have 30 days to enroll your spouse in your available benefits. You can also use this time to update your beneficiaries, if needed, and change your address if you’re moving.”
Challenging Transitions (e.g., divorce)
“I’m sorry you’re facing this right now. Let me reassure you that you’ve got options when it comes to coverage, and you don’t have to figure it all out at once. You’ll have 30 days from the date of your divorce to explore your benefit options and choose the plans that best support your needs moving forward.”
New Chapters (e.g., retirement)
“Retirement is such an exciting milestone, and you deserve to enjoy every moment of it. As you prepare for this next chapter, it’s a great time to review your benefits and plan ahead. Start by looking at which employer-sponsored coverages will end and what new options, such as Medicare, might be available. Many voluntary benefits are portable and can move with you into retirement. These can be transitioned from payroll deduction to direct billing or bank draft to help you maintain coverage seamlessly.”
Navigating benefits during major life events can be overwhelming, but HR professionals have a unique opportunity to offer clarity and compassion when it matters most.
Partnering with Pierce Group Benefits
Pierce Group Benefits (PGB) supports HR departments and benefits personnel in navigating the complexities of benefits management. We have licensed insurance professionals available year-round to support both employers and employees by answering benefits questions and providing expert guidance during open enrollment. To learn more about our teams and services, contact a PGB Representative at partnership@piercegroupbenefits.com.