Benefits & Perks, Explained

Benefits can be half your total compensation. Here's how to read them and compare offers like a pro.

Benefits Visual
Core Benefits (What to Look For)
Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision):

Premiums, deductibles, copays, in-network coverage, and start date (e.g., day 1 vs. after 30 days).

Mental Health & EAP:

Therapy sessions, counseling, crisis support, app access.

Retirement (401(k)/403(b)/RRSP, etc.):

Employer match %, vesting schedule, investment options.

Paid Time Off:

PTO bank vs. separate vacation/sick, holidays, carryover rules.

Parental & Family Leave:

Paid weeks, eligibility period, caregiver leave.

Disability & Life Insurance:

Short/long-term disability % of pay covered; basic life amount.

Common Perks
WFH & Tech:

Laptop, accessories, home-office stipend, coworking pass.

Learning & Development:

Annual stipend, certification budget, internal courses.

Commuter & Mobility:

Transit/parking benefits, bike storage, relocation help.

Food & Wellness:

Snacks, meals, gym discounts, wellness reimbursements.

Time Flexibility:

Flexible hours, summer Fridays, volunteer days.

Benefits Visual
Benefits Visual
Equity (If Offered)
RSUs vs. Options:

RSUs = shares granted; options = right to buy later at a set price.

Vesting:

How/when equity becomes yours (e.g., 4 years, 1-year cliff).

Liquidity:

Can you sell? Public vs. private company matters.

How to Compare Two Offers (Mini-Framework)
1. Base Pay:

Annual salary or hourly rate.

2. Bonus/Commission:

Target %, payout history.

3. Equity:

Value today vs. potential.

4. Benefits:

Health, retirement match, PTO.

5. Perks:

Any that matter to you personally.

6. Work Style:

Remote/hybrid/in-person expectations.

7. Growth:

Mentorship, L&D budget, promotion path.

Benefits Visual