What is Open Enrollment and Why It Matters

Open enrollment only comes once a year, and it’s your chance to make sure your benefits still fit your life. During this time, you can review your health, dental, vision and life insurance options, and make changes if you need to. Think of it like a yearly benefits checkup. Your needs may change over time, and so can your plans.

Every employer sets their own open enrollment dates. Mark yours on your calendar and give yourself time to make decisions—waiting until the last minute only adds stress!

Common Open Enrollment Mistakes to Avoid

Even small errors during open enrollment can cost you time, money or coverage. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

When you rush, it’s easy to miss a deadline or overlook key details.
Tip: Start early. Compare plans carefully and ask questions if something doesn’t make sense.

2. Ignoring Plan Changes

Don’t assume your plan is the same as last year. Premiums, copays or covered services may have changed.
Tip: Review your Summary of Benefits and Coverage—it’s like a quick snapshot of what’s new.

3. Forgetting to Update Dependents or Beneficiaries

Marriage, divorce, a new baby or a child turning 26? Don’t forget to update your records. Missing this step could delay claims or leave loved ones uncovered.

4. Overlooking Dental and Vision Coverage

Medical coverage often steals the spotlight, but dental and vision are important for overall health. Free or reduced-price annual exams are typically provided with dental and vision coverage. This makes getting preventive care easy! It’s especially important because regular exams can catch health issues early, which can save you money later.

5. Choosing Based on Price Alone

The cheapest plan isn’t always the best. It might mean higher costs later if you need care.
Tip: Balance cost with coverage. Paying a little more now can save you a lot down the road.

6. Not Checking Network Providers

Do you have a dentist or optometrist that you love? Check to see if they’re in-network before confirming your benefits! Your employer might offer several plans, and your preferred provider may not be in-network for each one. As a reminder, out-of-network visits cost more, so it pays to double-check.
Tip: Use tools like Delta Dental of Arizona’s Find a Provider tool to confirm your provider is in-network.

7. Forgetting to Re-enroll in FSAs or HSAs

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) can help you save on various medical, dental and vision expenses, but you often need to sign up again each year.

8. Ignoring Helpful Resources

Many employers offer videos, tools and guides to walk you through your coverage options. Take a few minutes to review the materials they provide so you can learn what’s new, what’s different and what’s going to make the biggest difference for your overall wellbeing.

9. Not Asking Questions

Benefits can be confusing, and that’s okay! It’s always better to ask questions now than fix a mistake later. Reach out to your company’s benefits administrator to get clarification so you feel confident that you’re making the right decisions for you and your family.

How to Fix Mistakes During Open Enrollment

If you realize you made an error, act fast! You may be able to fix it before the deadline by:

• Double-checking your enrollment form for typos or missed info
• Updating dependents or beneficiaries
• Adjusting coverage levels to fit your needs

What Happens if You Miss Open Enrollment?

If you miss the deadline, you usually have to wait until next year to make changes, unless you have a qualifying life event, like getting married, having a baby or losing other coverage.

Your Open Enrollment Checklist

Before you submit your enrollment, take one last look to be sure that:

• Dependents and beneficiaries are up to date
• Plan costs and coverage make sense for your needs
• You’ve reviewed tax-saving accounts like FSAs or HSAs
• You’ve submitted everything before the deadline

Download our open enrollment checklist right to your phone so you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

Open enrollment is your chance to take charge of your health and financial well-being. A little preparation now means fewer surprises later—and peace of mind all year long.

At Delta Dental of Arizona, we’re here to help you understand your benefits and keep you healthy year-round.