At Journey Payroll & HR, we believe smart benefits build strong teams. One option more employers are exploring is supplemental insurance, especially policies designed to help cover serious illnesses like cancer, unexpected accidents, and critical care needs. 

But is this the right move for your team? Let’s break down why you might want to offer these policies and a few reasons why you might not. 

Why You Might Want to Offer Supplemental Insurance (Like Cancer Policies) 

1. Financial Protection Beyond Health Insurance
   Even with a solid health plan, a serious diagnosis can lead to uncovered expenses – travel for treatment, out-of-network providers, lost income during recovery, etc. Supplemental policies help bridge those gaps.
2. It Shows You Care About the Whole Employee
   Offering cancer, critical illness, or hospital indemnity insurance sends a strong message: “We’re here for you during life’s hardest moments.” That support builds loyalty and boosts morale.
3. It’s Typically Employee-Paid (Voluntary)
   You don’t have to foot the bill. Most supplemental policies are voluntary benefits, meaning employees choose whether to enroll and pay the premiums themselves through payroll deductions. You provide access they decide what’s right for them.
4. Easy to Administer
   With the right benefits partner, supplemental insurance can be added to your existing offerings with minimal effort. You provide a valuable option without creating an administrative headache.

Why You Might Not Want to Offer It 

1. Value Isn’t Always Clear to Everyone
   If employees don’t understand how or when they might benefit from supplemental coverage, they may see it as unnecessary. That’s why education and clear communication are key.
2. Some Employees May Expect You to Contribute
   While most supplemental plans are voluntary, offering them can create the perception that you’re endorsing them and some team members might hope (or expect) partial employer contributions, which may not be in your budget.

Key Takeaway: It’s About Empowering Choice 

Supplemental insurance gives your employees options. And offering more options without pressure can strengthen your benefits package and help employees feel more secure. 

At Journey Payroll & HR, we recommend thinking of these policies as a way to enhance, not replace, your core benefits. They won’t be the right fit for every business or every employee, but they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who use them. 

Let’s Talk Benefits That Work for You 

Not sure if supplemental insurance fits into your benefits strategy? We’d love to connect you to a great benefit advisor that can help go through your options.  You’ll want an advisor that will help you evaluate your options, communicate clearly with your team, and design a plan that works for your business without the fluff or confusion.