Recent findings from Unum suggests most employees don't believe their employer-provided benefits would provide sufficient financial protection if they missed work because of illness or injury. Nearly 60 percent of workers would consider buying more coverage through work, if they were offered the chance.

"Employers invest a lot of time and money in building the right benefits package to help their workforce stay financially stable and help protect them from the financial fallout of illness and injury," said Neiciee Durrence, vice president, Voluntary Practice Leader for Unum, in a statement. "As we head into the fall benefits enrollment season, this survey offers a strong message to employers about the need to offer ways to cover gaps in those benefits plans."

Only 32 percent of employees surveyed said the non-medical benefits they receive through work would provide adequate financial resources for them and their families should they become unable to work due to injury, illness or maternity.

Fifty-three percent say they would not have enough money to meet their basic needs if they were unable to work for an extended time, and another 15 percent were unsure if they could weather an extended period of missed work.

If their employer offered them the opportunity, 59 percent of employees indicate they would consider purchasing additional insurance to cover themselves financially.

Other findings from the study show even employees with higher annual incomes ($100,000 or more) felt unsure about their ability to withstand the loss of income, with 41 percent indicating that they would not be adequately protected by the benefits they received from their employer. And among younger employees (21 to 29), 63 percent say they would consider purchasing more coverage if it were offered it through work. Among older employees, (45 to 64) 54 percent would consider purchasing more coverage.

Instant Insights /

Survey: Employees want extended protection through benefits

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