People have been quick to demonize Wal-Mart for its supposed poor wages and benefits. I disagree, the company offers excellent benefits, especially for the retail industry. Here are some of the great benefits Wal-Mart offers
There is a waiting period for part-time workers of one year, but every associate is offered full health insurance after that waiting period. Whether an associate works 8 hours or 40 the cost is the same. Each year the plan changes slightly, but in 2011, Wal-Mart gave each associate $500 to apply towards health costs prior to having to meet the deductible.
The company offers associates a full 6 percent match when the associate contributes 6% as well. This is one of the most generous 401k matches I've ever seen. There is absolutely no reason to not contribute. If you are a low wage earner, the government also gives a savings credit towards taxes for contributing, and then the Wal-Mart match on top of that.
The company offers a 15% discount on purchasing company stock. An associate can contribute a substantial amount before hitting the company max each year. Wal-Mart stock also pays a nice dividend on top of the 15% discount. It's free money, associates need to take advantage of this opportunity.
10% off on certain merchandise is a great benefit. During certain months, the discount covers all items except clearance items. Otherwise, all fruits and vegetables, and general (non-food) merchandise is 10% off.
On top of all the other benefits, the stores that meet profit,sales, customer satisfaction metrics get bonuses. These payout can be hundreds of extra dollars per quarter.
Wal-Mart has been unfairly characterized as a bad employer. In some cases, in a company that employees 1.9 million people there have been problems. But overall, the company has awesome benefits for a retail job.
Great list.
There have definitely been a few bad experiences, but for the most part the company seems to have a very generous benefits package. I forgot to mention that the company match to the 401k is 100% vested from day 1. Not bad at all.
I think that Wal-Mart is just so big that there will obviously be some negative experiences.
select one here...