Most people are missing out on benefits they already qualify for — just because no one ever told them they exist.
From your job to your state and even the federal government, there are programs designed to help you afford healthcare, support your family, and protect your income — but they’re often buried in fine print or spread across a dozen confusing websites.
That’s why I created The Benefits You Deserve — to make sure you don’t miss a single opportunity to improve your financial and personal well-being.
Here are 10 benefits that many Americans qualify for but rarely use — and how you can check if you’re eligible.
1. Employer-Sponsored Life Insurance (and Voluntary Add-Ons)
Most full-time employees are automatically enrolled in a basic life insurance policy through their employer — often equal to one or two times your annual salary. But many companies also offer optional “voluntary” life insurance at group rates, allowing you to add extra coverage for a fraction of what you’d pay on your own.
Why It Matters:
Employer group rates are usually cheaper because you’re part of a large pool. Even if you’re healthy and young, buying extra life insurance through your employer can be far more affordable than shopping for an individual policy.
How to Check:
Log into your benefits portal or ask HR if your company offers supplemental life insurance during open enrollment. Some companies even allow mid-year enrollment with proof of “qualifying life events” like marriage or a new baby.
3. Paid Family Leave (State-Level Programs)
While not every state offers paid family leave, many do — and more states are adding programs every year. Paid family leave typically covers time off for:
- Caring for a new child (birth, adoption, or foster)
- Caring for a seriously ill family member
- Your own serious health condition
Why It Matters:
You could qualify for partial wage replacement while you take necessary time away from work — protecting your income and job security.
Examples:
- California, New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, Connecticut, Oregon and others offer Paid Family Leave.
- Benefits often range from 60%-90% of your wages for up to 12 weeks.
How to Check:
Google “[Your State] Paid Family Leave program” or check with your HR department, especially if you’re planning a major life event like having a baby or becoming a caregiver.
4. Health Savings Accounts (HSA Contributions and Matches)
If you’re enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), you’re eligible to open and contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why It Matters:
HSAs offer a triple tax advantage:
- Contributions are pretax (lowering your taxable income)
- Growth is tax-free
- Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free
Bonus Tip:
Some employers match HSA contributions — offering “free money” toward your healthcare savings. Even if you don’t contribute much yourself, it’s worth checking if your employer will chip in.
How to Check:
Look at your health benefits documents or contact HR to confirm if your plan qualifies and if your employer offers matching contributions.
5. Marketplace Subsidies (ACA Premium Tax Credits)
If you’re self-employed, in between jobs, or your employer coverage is too expensive, you might qualify for major health insurance discounts through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace — even if your income is moderate.
Why It Matters:
Many people making up to 400% of the federal poverty level qualify for premium tax credits that lower monthly costs dramatically.
(Example: a family of four earning under ~$124,000/year in 2025 could still qualify.)
Common Misconception:
You do NOT have to be “low income” to qualify. Many middle-class families are eligible but don’t realize it.
How to Check:
Visit Healthcare.gov and use their subsidy estimator to see if you qualify.
6. Free Preventive Services (Thanks to the ACA)
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, most health plans must fully cover a list of preventive services — with no copay, no deductible, and no coinsurance.
Covered Services Include:
- Annual physical exams
- Cancer screenings (mammograms, colonoscopies)
- Prenatal and postpartum care
- Vaccinations (flu, COVID, shingles, etc.)
Why It Matters:
If you’re skipping checkups because of cost worries, know that preventive visits are already included in your premiums — you’re paying for them whether you use them or not.
How to Check:
Call your insurance company and ask: “What preventive services are covered at 100% under my plan?”
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