Top 10 Reasons Employees Value Voluntary Benefits (Even More Than Salary)

Why smart employers offer more than just a paycheck

It’s no secret that compensation matters — but when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent, salary alone isn’t enough. In fact, studies show that employees often place more long-term value on benefits than a slightly higher paycheck. One of the most powerful tools in your benefits toolkit? Voluntary benefits.

Voluntary benefits are employee-paid insurance and services that offer added protection, peace of mind, and convenience — all at group rates and often through payroll deduction. These plans are optional, but highly appreciated.

Here’s why they matter so much:

1. They Provide Real-World Financial Protection

Accidents, illnesses, and unexpected emergencies can throw a major wrench into anyone’s budget. Voluntary benefits like accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance help employees avoid financial disaster when life throws them a curveball.

2. Employees Appreciate Having a Safety Net

Even with great medical insurance, most people have deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket costs. Voluntary benefits help bridge the gap — offering cash benefits to use on anything from treatment to rent or groceries.

3. They Offer More Flexibility Than Traditional Coverage

Voluntary benefits are typically portable and can often stay with the employee if they leave the company. Many plans offer customization, giving employees more control over their coverage based on their personal or family needs.

4. It Helps Employees Feel Valued and Cared For

Offering benefits beyond the basics sends a message: “We care about your well-being — not just while you’re at work, but in life.” That kind of support creates loyalty, builds trust, and fosters a stronger work culture.

5. They're Affordable — Especially Through Payroll Deduction

Because voluntary benefits are often offered at group rates, employees enjoy affordable coverage with convenient payroll deductions. Some premiums can even be paid pre-tax, saving money for both employees and employers.

6. Coverage Can Extend to Family Members

Many voluntary plans allow employees to add spouses and dependents, giving families additional protection. This is a huge value-add for employees with children, aging parents, or a single-income household.

7. They Address the “Gaps” in Major Medical Plans

Most health plans don’t cover dental, vision, hearing, or disability — but voluntary benefits do. These offerings help round out a benefits package and support overall health and productivity.

8. They're Easy to Understand and Use

Many employees are familiar with how voluntary benefits work and can enroll with confidence. The claims processes are typically straightforward and fast, especially for fixed-benefit plans.

9. They Improve Recruitment and Retention

In a competitive job market, a well-rounded benefits package can set your business apart. Voluntary benefits can be the deciding factor for candidates comparing job offers — and a major incentive for existing employees to stay.

10. Peace of Mind is Priceless

Knowing they have support if something goes wrong lets employees focus on their work — not worry about what might happen. That peace of mind often means more than a few extra dollars on their paycheck.

Final Thought: It’s Not Just About the Money

Voluntary benefits don’t replace a good salary — they enhance the overall value of employment. For employers, offering these benefits often comes at no direct cost, but the return in employee satisfaction, loyalty, and peace of mind is invaluable.

If you’re an employer looking to build a stronger, more attractive benefits package — or an employee curious about what your options really cover — I’m here to help.