The proliferation of State Paid Family and Medical Leave programs alongside the Federal FMLA has been an overdue and needed support structure for individuals struggling with medical crisis, family needs or behavioral health issues.

While the job protection and modest amount of financial support is there to help individuals through tough times, there are surprises (and not good ones) that leave employees with larger than expected medical bills, a lack of caregiver support, or just not enough money to make ends meet.

We've also seen a proliferation of supplemental health products that employees may purchase to counter the high deductibles that can come with medical plans. The lump sum benefits these provide are extremely helpful in the event of an accident, hospitalization, or even a long-term illness.