Check Masters
The small company that you say takes the best care of its employees isn't a boutique marketing firm, chic architecture agency or dot-com startup. It's payday loan service Check Masters, a chain of 22 financial offices around the area that lend people money when they're in a pinch.
The Lynnwood-based company pays 100 percent of employee premiums on health insurance, with added coverage for spouses, domestic partners and dependents. If they want to opt for a higher-tiered plan, employees can have what one refers to as "all those fancy doctor visits" with 80 percent covered. They also provide $20,000 in life insurance and a 401(k) plan that matches 100 percent of the employee's contribution.
The vacation time isn't anything to scoff at, either. It only takes four years to get up to a month off. And each employee's birthday is considered his or her very own personal paid holiday.
*Listed in alphabetical order
Sunrise cares about health and wellness. In addition to the traditional medical, dental, vision, vacation time and matching 401(k) benefits, the Woodinville-based branded merchandise supplier also recently held a 90-day challenge based on the "Biggest Loser" TV show. Employees had lunch sessions covering nutrition tips, and did stair climbing, stretching and yoga exercises to improve their health. Best of all? The company provides a wellness fridge stocked with healthy snacks and Theo Chocolates and it practices "early release" on hot summer Fridays.
