I notice when we talk with our friends we are always discussing our job benefits.  Obviously the topic of salaries is taboo, but job benefits are not.  It seems that we try to see how our benefits compare to other people in other fields or even in the same field.  The spectrum of benefits provided by an employer seems very broad and diverse.  But the curiosity to see what others have is not.  Thus I want to mention things that always come and are I think important when evaluating taking a new job.

1. Vacation – People are always asking each other how much vacation time they get off.  The standard in the US I would say appears to be 2 weeks or 10 days.  Of course this varies based on industry, position, and longevity with the company.  When comparing job offers, make sure you are not getting paid a higher salary because you have to work more hours instead of a raise.
2. Sick Days – I think most companies now give unlimited sick days.  Meaning you can take any number of days off, but after 3 days, a doctor’s note is required regarding the severity of the illness.  Some places do give a set amount of sick days, like 5days/year.  But when they do it, I notice that people tend to treat the days like extra vacation days.  As compared to when it’s on the honor system.
3. Health Insurance Premiums – Companies are switching more of the premium costs over to the employees.  Previously many companies used to pay 100% of the premiums for employees and their families.  Now the % covered by the company is substantially less.  Another thing is some companies are switching from traditional health insurance plans to a the cheaper high deductible health plans (HDHPs), which cost them less out of pocket(OOP) but more OOP to the employee.  Thus comparing medical plans between jobs is essential to determining the true benefit, not just monthly price.
4. Maternity/Paternity leave – Depending on where you live the rules differ state by state regarding maternity/paternity leave.  Most places don’t give leave, but my DH is fortunate to get 2 weeks of paternity leave!  But many companies are picking up on this policy I believe.  Plus comparing how long a company will hold you job or how long you have to be working before taking maternity is important as well.
5. 401k Match – This is important, but it shouldn’t be a reason to turn down a job.  It can however be a reason to ask for a higher salary.  Also consider the vesting schedule between companies if one has a 3 versus a 4 year vesting schedule.  Another consideration is if the coampany has a pension and is likely to keep a pension in place.
6. Culture – The previous 5 benefits are pretty straightforward.  You know if you are getting a good deal financially or not.  But it’s hard to measure and compare the culture of the potential working atmosphere.  For example, my neighbor is able to bring her dog to work occasionally.  This is a huge benefit to her and makes her loyal to the company versus finding a higher paying job.  The benefit cannot be measured financially but in job satisfaction.  Some companies are better about allowing people to work from home or bank overtime as extra vacation days.  These are perks you should try to find out before taking a job if it’s important to you.

There are of course other job benefits not financially measurable or mentioned here. I just thought to put together some basic guidelines to consider when you are on the job hunt or comparing job offer.

What are other benefits to consider as well?