Three reasons to offer employees a group benefits plan

Help employees manage their health for better work engagement

If you’re trying to think of ways to attract, retain and engage employees, it may be worthwhile to consider adding a group benefits plan or updating your existing plan.

When you offer a group benefits plan to your employees, it could increase engagement more than giving employees a raise in pay for three major reasons:

  1. Benefits can be a tax-effective way to compensate your employees—health and dental benefits are tax-free for employees in all provinces except Quebec (other exceptions may apply)
  2. You can help protect the well-being of your employees and their families by helping them manage their health and wellness, and by creating a sense of security and belonging
  3. You can improve employee appreciation and loyalty by tangibly conveying your support for your employees beyond their day-to-day work

If you’re starting to look at group benefits plans, here are some options to consider for your company and your employees:

  • Comprehensive and flexible group benefits plans, including pharmacy benefits, health care and dental care
  • Short and long term disability insurance that can provide employees with income replacement should they become disabled due to an injury or an illness
  • Group critical illness benefits to provide a non-taxable lump-sum payment following the diagnosis of a covered illness
  • Employee and family assistance programs to help employees manage stress and achieve work-life balance
  • Tools that can help employees steer their way through the health-care system and may give them access to world-class doctors when they need a second opinion
  • Information and resources on how to detect and manage the most common mental health issues. For example, you can point your employees to resources on the Mental Wellness Solutions website
  • Online tools to inform, encourage and support your employees in leading a healthier lifestyle

Read more on this topic:

Manulife – Forward-thinking Solutions

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