What to Do After Open Enrollment: 7 Steps to Get the Most From Your Benefits

Open enrollment can feel like a whirlwind. Reviewing benefit options, comparing costs and making decisions for the upcoming plan year can be a lot to navigate.

But once enrollment closes, it is time to start preparing for your benefits to begin. The steps you take now can make a big difference in how effectively you use your health insurance and other benefits throughout the year.

By setting yourself up early, you can avoid surprises, reduce costs and maximize the value of the benefits you selected.

Here are seven key steps to take after open enrollment to make sure you are fully prepared for the year ahead.

Step 1: Review Your Plan Documents

Even if you carefully selected your benefits during enrollment, it is important to revisit your plan documents. These resources outline what your plan covers, what it does not cover and how much you will pay out of pocket.

When reviewing your documents, make sure to:

• Look for details about deductibles, copays and coinsurance
• Review voluntary benefit coverage such as dental and vision plans
• Note any annual limits or coverage caps
• Check for errors in your personal or coverage information

Catching mistakes early makes them much easier to fix.

Step 2: Verify Your Provider Network

One of the easiest ways to save money is to use in-network providers. Many plans charge higher copays or may not cover care at all if you visit an out-of-network provider.

Be sure to:

• Confirm that your primary care physician, specialists and hospitals are in network
• Locate a new provider if you have recently moved or want to switch doctors
• Check that your medications and preferred pharmacy are covered under your plan

This step helps prevent unexpected charges when receiving care.

Step 3: Complete Any Required Follow-Ups

Some benefits require additional steps after enrollment. These may include:

• Assigning or updating beneficiaries for life insurance or retirement accounts
• Providing proof of dependent eligibility
• Signing or submitting additional forms to finalize your coverage

Completing these tasks promptly helps avoid delays or potential loss of coverage.

Step 4: Confirm You Received Your ID Cards

Health, dental, vision and prescription plans typically issue new ID cards each year.

When you receive them:

• Keep physical cards in your wallet
• Download digital copies through your insurer’s mobile app
• Verify that all information on the cards is accurate

If your cards have not arrived within a few weeks of the plan start date, contact your HR department or insurance provider.

Step 5: Set Up Online Accounts and Mobile Apps

Most benefit providers offer online portals and mobile apps that make it easier to manage your benefits. These tools allow you to:

• Track claims and deductible progress
• Search for in-network providers
• Estimate the cost of medical services
• Access digital ID cards
• Use wellness tools such as nurse hotlines or mental health resources

Setting up these accounts early can save time later.

Step 6: Schedule Preventive Care

Preventive services are often covered at little or no cost and help you maintain long-term health.

Consider scheduling:

• Your annual physical or wellness exam
• Routine screenings such as cholesterol tests or blood pressure checks
• Dental cleanings and eye exams

Preventive care helps detect potential issues early and reduces the risk of more serious health problems later.

Step 7: Create a Benefits Budget

Take time to review the financial side of your benefits so you can plan ahead.

You may want to:

• Estimate annual spending on premiums, copays and prescriptions
• Plan how to use funds in a flexible spending account or health savings account
• Set aside money each month for unexpected health expenses

Creating a benefits budget helps you avoid surprises and take full advantage of tax-advantaged accounts.

Conclusion

Open enrollment may be over, but the steps you take afterward are just as important as the decisions you made during enrollment. Reviewing your documents, confirming providers, setting up accounts and scheduling preventive care all help you make the most of your benefits.

By taking a few proactive steps now, you can use your coverage more effectively, support your health and avoid unnecessary stress throughout the year.

If you have questions about your plan or available resources, check with your Wells Employee Benefits team to better understand the tools and support included in your coverage.

This Know Your Benefits article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of an insurance professional. © 2025 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

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