Sweeten the deal with benefits

By Liz Zack, special for Gannett News Service

Now that you've got a job offer, it's time to take control of the situation. Knowing what benefits you can bargain with can help sweeten your deal.

401(k) plan

This savings plan allows you to set aside part of your paycheck each month before taxes. Sometimes your company will match a fraction of your contributions. This means free money for you. This benefit may not kick in until you've been an employee for a certain amount of time.

Vacation, sick and personal days

On average, the American worker is allotted 13 vacation days a year. In addition to vacation days you'll get sick days, and sometimes a few "personal days" to use however you like.

Health club membership

Some employers will pay for or subsidize health club memberships. Often this benefit is distributed through the medical insurance provider.

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Signing bonus

Some industries offer signing bonuses — a one-time perk for accepting employment. Understand restrictions carefully, however, as some signing bonuses must be repaid if you leave the company before a specified date.

Cell phone and pagers

Some employers provide mobile phones and pagers to all employees. While this can be a perk, it also can make you always accessible to your boss.

Relocation

If you need to move to take a job, your employer may reimburse your expenses or have contracted movers relocate you.

Stock options

This allows you to own company stock, often at a reduced price.

Expense account

Either a fixed amount per month or a reimbursement of expenses accrued; this varies in what it can be used for.

Tuition reimbursement

Many employers realize continued education makes their employees more valuable to the company. Therefore, they're encouraging workers to take classes by subsidizing tuition bills. Find out if there's a maximum dollar amount for this benefit

Medical plans, including dental and vision

Depending on your level of coverage, your employer may pick up the whole bill or you may pay a portion out of pocket.

Other discounts

In this world of mega-corporations, it's possible that your employer is part of a larger company. Other benefits might include discounts on other products in your corporate family. For instance, you're taking a job with Disney. Do you get free AOL access?

Pre-tax transportation benefits

In cities where employees tend to take public transportation, employers often offer a pre-tax transportation benefit. This usually allows you to set aside money before taxes from your paycheck each month to go towards a subway or bus pass.