Employee Benefits You Might Not Know About
As a full-time employee, whether in the public or private sector, there are many different kinds of extra benefits that you could be entitled to. However, most people seem not to know about them, or are too scared to ask their employees whether they can get them.
While these might not apply to every company, it’s worth being aware of them and asking your manager or Human Resources what you could be eligible for.
Paid holiday - An obvious one, but it’s still worth remembering that you’re entitled to a number of paid holiday days a year.
Paid sick leave - Again, one you’ll probably already know, but sick leave entitlement can differ from company to company, so it’s best to find out how much you can have. It’s generally up to your employer’s discretion, but should you require it you could be entitled to indefinite sick leave.
Private healthcare - This can include free check-ups, mental health support and physiotherapy if your company provides it.
Dental - Similarly, your company might cover your dental care, from basic hygienist appointments to more pricey procedures like root canals.
Optometry - If you work on a PC your employers may be willing to pay for your eyes to be tested, and partially contribute to any payments on glasses should you need them.
Life insurance - Probably not one you really want to think about, but it’s worth remembering that if you die while working for a company then a payment could be provided for dependents.
Childcare - If you’re a working parent with a young child, you may be entitled to childcare vouchers provided by your company. There might even be a nursery at your place of employment that you can put your child into for less money.
Travel subsidies - If you commute into work then you may be entitled to a season-ticket loan.
Company car - If you’re expected to travel as part of your job, you may be entitled to a car paid for by the company which you can also use on your own time.
Gym membership - Your company may provide discount gym membership for gyms on-site or near your place of employment.
Paid for qualifications - If you want to get more educated then your employer may be willing to fund, or at least partially fund, some part-time education that fits around your job role.
Pension - Whatever you pay in to your pension your company will also pay a percentage.
Share save - If you work for a publicly traded company then you may have the opportunity to buy some of their shares at a discounted price, to be kept or sold later.
Remote working - If your job is one where remote working is possible, you may be able to work from home if you need to, for example to care for a young child or sick relative.