Your Employer Insurance Enrollment Checklist

Signing up for insurance through your employer can feel overwhelming, but with a clear process, you can make informed choices that fit your needs. This checklist walks you through each step, from understanding your options to submitting your enrollment.

Step 1: Review your plan options

• Take time to look at the plan(s) available to you through your employer.

• Consider your family's needs for the year ahead. Do you expect routine checkups only, or something more extensive?

• Compare coverage levels (preventive care, basic procedures, major services) and costs.

  • Health Insurance: Compare premiums, deductibles, copays, and provider networks.

  • Dental Insurance: Look for coverage on preventive care, major procedures, and orthodontics.

  • Vision Insurance: Check coverage for exams, frames, lenses, and specialty care.

  • Other Benefits: Life, disability, voluntary plans (accident, critical illness, etc.). 

Step 2: Gather your information

Before you start the enrollment process, have this information handy:

• Your Social Security Number (and those of any dependents you’ll be enrolling).

• Dates of birth for you and any covered dependents.

• Your dentist’s name and office details (if you already have a preferred provider).

Step 3: Compare costs & coverage

• Use employer-provided comparison charts.

• Calculate total annual cost: premium and expected out-of-pocket expenses.

• Make note of maximums and limits.

Step 4: Check the network

• Make sure your doctors, dentists, and eye care providers are in-network.

• Out-of-network care often costs more.

Step 5: Log in to your enrollment portal

• Access the benefits portal or HR system your employer uses (your HR team can share the exact link or instructions).

• Navigate through the sections for health, dental and vision insurance.

Step 6: Make your selections

• Choose the plan you want to enroll in.

• Add dependents (if applicable).

• Double-check that all personal information is correct.

Step 7: Confirm and save your enrollment

• Carefully review your enrollment summary.

• Submit your selections before the deadline.

• Print or save a copy of your confirmation for your records.

Step 8: Know what happens next

• You’ll receive an ID card (digital or physical) once enrollment is processed.

• You can start using your benefits on your plan’s effective date.

• Log in to your carrier’s member portal to find an in-network provider, track claims, and learn more about your coverage.

Need Help?

If you run into questions during enrollment, reach out to your HR or benefits team. They can provide details about your plan options, deadlines, and login instructions.

Enrolling in your insurance only takes a few minutes, but the benefits last all year. With coverage in place, you and your family can keep your smiles healthy while saving money on care.