Voluntary benefits
Voluntary benefits give employees more ways to protect themselves and their families. Here's a plain-English look at the most common options and how they work.
Reviewed by Veronica Mosley, Licensed Life & Health Insurance Agent — Whitehead Benefits & Consulting Services, LLC · Updated October 2026
Voluntary insurance is optional coverage employees can choose through work, often paid partly or entirely by the employee through payroll deduction. Many voluntary-benefit policies pay benefits directly to the insured, depending on the policy and claim.
May pay benefits after a covered accidental injury, based on the policy's schedule.
May pay a benefit after a covered diagnosis, such as certain heart conditions or cancer, depending on the policy.
May pay a set benefit for a covered hospital admission or stay.
May replace part of income if a covered illness or injury keeps you from working.
Additional life coverage beyond any basic group life an employer provides.
Many voluntary benefits can be structured with employees paying some or all of the premium, depending on the product, carrier, and employer arrangement. Coverage details, limitations, and exclusions vary by policy.
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