Helping Simplify Open Enrollment Season

Making confident benefit choices doesn’t have to feel overwhelming

Each fall, Open Enrollment arrives with a rush of deadlines, decisions, and details that can feel anything but simple. But with a little preparation and guidance, you can approach this season with more confidence and make sure your benefits fit your health, family, and financial goals.

At Fields Wealth Management, we believe financial well-being extends beyond investments and retirement plans — it includes the everyday choices that can protect your health, income, and peace of mind. Here’s how to help simplify your Open Enrollment this year.

1. Review Your Current Coverage

Before enrollment begins, take time to review what you currently have. Did your plan work well last year? Were there unexpected medical expenses, or did you rarely use certain benefits? Reflecting on your experience helps you identify what needs to change and what’s worth keeping.

2. Take Advantage of Employer Resources

Most employers offer benefits guides, online comparison tools, and even virtual sessions to walk through plan options. Spend 15–20 minutes exploring these, a little time upfront can save a lot of confusion later.

3. Account for Life Changes

If you’ve had a major life event like marriage, a new child, a move, or career change, now’s the time to update your benefits. Review your dependents, adjust insurance coverage, and make sure your beneficiaries are up to date.

4. Focus on Total Costs, Not Just Premiums

It’s easy to focus on the monthly premium, but it’s only part of the picture. Consider deductibles, co-pays, prescriptions, and potential out-of-pocket costs to help understand your real annual spending. A plan that looks cheaper up front may cost more over time.

5. Use Tax-Advantaged Accounts

If your employer offers a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), take advantage. HSAs, in particular, can be a powerful long-term planning tool — contributions, growth, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are all tax-free.

These accounts can complement your overall wealth strategy, bridging short-term needs and long-term financial goals.

6. Don’t Overlook the Extras

Benefits like dental, vision, disability, life insurance, and employee wellness programs often go underused. Review these options carefully. A few thoughtful selections can improve your overall coverage and quality of life.

7. Ask for Help When You Need It

Open Enrollment can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Your HR department, benefits coordinator, or financial advisor can help you compare options and align choices with your long-term goals.

Make This Open Enrollment Work for You

Your benefit elections are more than forms to complete —they’re an opportunity to protect your health, manage your taxes wisely, and strengthen your overall financial plan.

At Fields Wealth Management, we help clients make more confident decisions not only about investments and retirement but also about the everyday financial choices that shape their future.

Let’s make this Open Enrollment season simple, strategic, and aligned with what matters most to you.