What are typical benefits my employer might provide?

Over 50% of the population is covered by employer-based health insurance. It comes in many forms and US employers historically have used it (along with retirement plans) as a recruiting and retention tool. Consequently, there is a large variety among health plans and a broad range of complimentary benefits. 

While the ACA set basic minimum coverage, many employers choose to do more to provide more competitive total compensation packages. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics maintains extensive information on both compensation and benefits. Many include prescriptions, vision, dental, leave time, wellness, family care, child care, short and long term disability, life insurance, etc. All of these can be important over a working lifetime and into retirement.

The ACA generally requires employers to provide minimum essential health coverage comparable to the ACA. Large employers must pay at least 60% of the cost. Employers with fewer than 50 employees have access to the Small Business Health Options Market (SHOP) where they may get a tax credit and can get dental as well as health care coverage. Sole proprietors and independent contractors have direct access to the ACA marketplace.