Employee Benefits Overview

Federal law governs many employee benefits, including health care and pensions. Federal laws include the right to health-care coverage when you change jobs, and the right to continue your health-care coverage after you lose your job.

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) sets minimum standards for health and pension plans, and this act is enforced by the Employee Benefits Security Administration. If you believe you've been wrongfully denied benefits, or feel that your company has mismanaged its benefits plan, you may be able to sue. ERISA is a complex law—you should seek the advice of an experienced lawyer if you are contemplating a lawsuit.