Women are often the first to make decisions about health care for their families. But they are far less confident about their ability and financial resources to cover health care costs. According to The Aflac2016 Open Enrollment Survey: More than 1 in 10 women report living paycheck to paycheck, and almost half of those have less than $500 saved. Aflac WorkForces’ 2016 report also showed that only 26 per cent of women who work feel ready to pay for the unexpected expenses resulting from a serious illness or accident.

Open enrollment for benefits selection is difficult because of women’s financial vulnerability. This is especially true due to rising healthcare costs and high-deductible plans that shift costs from insurance to policyholders. Three quarters of women are enrolled in benefits.

They say it can be difficult to read about benefits options and 40% feel anxious, frustrated or confused.

A majority of women feel confident in their benefits choices because they have access to more information, money and help. It can help you feel confident and save money by doing some research before you choose a plan. More than half of women say they have lost up to $750 due to mistakes made during open enrollment.

These are four ways to make the open enrollment process this year more successful.

1. Take the time to review and compare all benefits information. Every year, many insurance plans undergo major changes. Knowing what your policy covers and the out-of-pocket expenses you will have to pay can help protect against unexpected injuries or illnesses.

2. To calculate your annual healthcare costs, you need to look at the amount that you have spent on your monthly premiums last year and subtract any expenses that your insurance did not cover. These costs can quickly add up if your health plan has a high-deductible.

3. You can add voluntary insurance to your plan to increase financial protection. Insurance plans for accident, critical illness, and hospital coverage can help you pay for major medical insurance, as well as any other expenses that continue to come in if your job is not possible.

4. Ask your employer’s insurance consultants or human resources team for questions. They can help explain your benefits and assist you in making the right decisions during open enrollment.

Aflac.com offers more information about how to choose the right health benefits.