Employee Benefits: 3 Advantages of Voluntary Dental and Vision Coverage

Posted August 2022 by Delta Dental of Arkansas
Revised November 2024

As a small-business owner, you may hesitate to add group dental and vision insurance to your employee benefits due to cost concerns.

However, there is a budget-friendly solution: voluntary benefits through cost shifting.

Opt for Cost Shifting

Cost shifting means that you offer dental and vision benefits on a voluntary basis, and the employee pays 100% of the monthly premiums.

This approach reduces your costs while still preserving the 3 key advantages of employer-sponsored dental and vision coverage:

1. Cost Savings

   Group rates typically mean lower premiums for employees compared to individual or family plans. In addition, the premium payments are deducted from the employees’ gross pay, reducing their income tax liability. This dual savings make voluntary benefits an attractive option.

2. Convenience

   Payroll deductions ensure regular, predictable premium payments, so employees won’t risk losing their coverage due to missed payments. This convenience adds value to the benefits package and simplifies the process for both employer and employee.

3. Protection Against Financial Loss from Dental or Vision Expenses

Insurance shields your employees from financial hardship caused by dental or vision expenses. With coverage, they benefit from discounted services and rates, resulting in lower out-of-pocket expenses. This helps with budgeting and ensures peace of mind.

Bonus: Your conscious effort to provide your employees with health and wellness benefits boosts workplace morale.

Why Should Small Businesses Offer Attractive Employee Benefits?

In today’s competitive job market, comprehensive employee benefits are crucial for attracting and retaining talented workers. In fact, more than 50% of employees say  they’d accept a job with a lower salary but competitive benefits packages. 

Your Business Benefits from Offering Employee Benefits

1. Improved Recruitment and Retention Rates
• Two of three job candidates said that the prospective employer’s package of benefits and perks was the most influential factor in their decision to accept or decline a job offer.
2. Increased Employee Loyalty and Productivity
• Attractive benefit packages contribute to employee commitment, reduced turnover costs, greater trust among staff members and an enhanced company reputation. This can boost your company’s bottom line and workforce morale.

 

Why is Group Medical/Dental and Vision Insurance Such a Coveted Employee Benefit?

1. Access to Lower Premiums Rates
   • Group rates typically mean lower premiums compared to individual or family plans.
2. Tax Savings
   • Employee contributions are deducted from their gross salary, reducing their taxable income. Adding a flexible spending account (FSA) allows them to save even more. An FSA is a pre-tax savings account for eligible medical, dental and vision expenses.
3. Convenience
   • Payroll deductions mean regular, predictable premium payments, so employees won’t risk losing coverage due to missed payments. Additionally, your premium contributions toward your employees’ coverage are tax-deductible as business expenses.

 

The Delta Dental Difference® Offers Valuable Benefits at Affordable Rates

Delta Dental of Arkansas has supported Arkansas businesses since 1982 with a comprehensive portfolio of dental and vision insurance plans. Our competitive offerings suit any company's budget and size.

And yes, we offer voluntary benefit options.

Benefits of Choosing Delta Dental of Arkansas:

• Simple applications
• No underwriting
• Convenient online benefits management

Learn More

Explore how Delta Dental of Arkansas can enhance your employee benefits package. Contact us today to learn more about our group dental and vision insurance benefits for small, medium and large companies.