What Does a Benefits Analyst Do?

A human resource specialist who specializes in a company’s employee benefits program is known as a benefits analyst. This individual is knowledgeable in a variety of areas, including group health and dental insurance, disability insurance, retirement plans, health and flexible savings accounts, paid time off, and all government policies affecting employee benefits. Typical responsibilities of a benefits analyst include administering the company’s group health plan. Employees are explained the plan’s features and assisted in enrolling properly the benefits analyst. He or she serves as a liaison between the insurance carrier and the employees, assisting with billing and claims resolution.

Annually reviewing the company’s employee benefits program and making recommendations for the following year is part of the benefits analyst’s job description. He or she will work with the insurance carrier or broker to negotiate a plan and rate changes, as well as suggest ways to increase participation. The analyst will look into how the plan is used and collaborate with the insurance carrier to find ways to help employees make better use of their benefits.

Another responsibility of the benefits analyst is to assist employees with disability claims. A benefits analyst must be able to explain the terms of the employee’s disability coverage and assist him or her in coordinating medical treatment with the insurance company. In this regard, the analyst assists both the employee and the company ensuring that the employee is fairly compensated the insurance carrier and that the employee returns to work as soon as he or she is medically cleared.

Employee paid time off is also tracked and monitored benefits analysts. Companies use a variety of methods to award and track paid time off, which are implemented and administered benefits analysts. Employees and the company may have disagreements about paid time off, such as vacation days and personal days, which are resolved benefits analysts.

A benefits analyst is often well-versed in government laws and policies related to employee benefits, in addition to group insurance and paid time off. Almost all businesses and employees are impacted these laws at some point. To ensure that the company and its employees are protected, the benefits analyst must be able to correctly interpret and apply the applicable laws.

Another of the analyst’s responsibilities is to assist in the implementation and administration of several tax-advantaged savings plans for employees. These plans come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A benefits analyst will advise company management on which types, if any, would be beneficial to the company and its employees.

Although no special licensing is required for the position of benefits analyst, most employers prefer candidates with human resources degrees and experience. Professional certifications are obtained many benefits analysts. Benefits analysts are frequently involved in local chapters of human resource professional organizations.