1, 2, 3 of picking benefits

In the November 2009 Time magazine, they suggest three things you should do when picking benefits:

1. Don’t just default to your current plan.  Spend the time to compare copays, premiums, deductibles, and estimate out-of-pocket costs.  [too bad most plans don’t give us an easy to use model of what you would have spent last year under the different plan options]  They also suggest opening a HSA (Health Savings Account) if you go with a high deductible plan.
2. Fund your FSA (Flexible Spending Account).  They estimate that you save $350 for every $1,000 you deposit (and use).
3. Test your wellness.  Many employers (and health plans) offer different forms or tools to test your wellness and health.  You should know the results and you may even get paid to do it.