Benefits 101 (Without the Boring Parts)
Decode the portal, open enrollment, and the jargon they use to confuse you.
Disclaimer
Terms vary by employer. Always refer to your SPD, SBC, and HR. General education only.
🎬 Part 2: The Vocabulary That Unlocks Everything
Download transcript (PDF)Your deliverable
Keep this on your desk during open enrollment.
Vocabulary Cheat Sheet — premium, deductible, SPD, SBC, HSA (PDF)When HR says "check the portal," they mean the SPD, SBC, and carrier certificate. Bookmark all three now so you're not scrambling during open enrollment.
Quick reference
- SPD — how retirement/welfare plans work. SBC — standardized health plan summary.
- Change windows: new hire enrollment, annual open enrollment, qualifying life events.
- Compare plans using premium + deductible + OOP max — not premium alone.
Checklist
- Download your health plan SBC
- Locate retirement plan SPD
- Bookmark IRS Pub 969 for HSA/FSA limit reference
- Confirm plan year and open enrollment dates
- Review the SBC glossary