According to new research, workers are increasingly opting to forgo insurance benefits from their employers so they can instead have bigger paychecks. Nearly 40 percent of companies say it’s a growing trend for employees to opt out of benefits like pension plans, life insurance or income protection in order to take home more money.

Another 18 percent of companies polled say they’ve also seen a drop in the amount of money staff are willing to contribute to their pension. “We’re witnessing several concerning trends that would point to many employees currently taking a very short-term view of their financial situation,” Marketing Officer Marco Forato told The Press Association. “Although there’s no denying that a lot of people are struggling financially as a result of the recession, workers should only opt out of long-term financial benefits as a last resort. It is vital that employees instead seek to protect themselves and their dependants by having robust financial cover in place.”

Officials say that while the workers may be getting a slight cash boost, they could be laying the groundwork for future financial problems. Not only are they jeopardizing their retirement plans but if they become ill and can’t earn a salary, their dependents will also be in trouble. Research shows that roughly one in three British workers would only be able to survive less than a month on the statutory sick pay which equates to about $100 a week.

McDonald’s Corp. says the health care overhaul may force many of its franchises to close. According to a report by the Kansas City Star, The Department of Health and Human Services is having some serious discussions with the fast food giant over impending changes in health insurance. New regulations force health plans to spend at least 80 percent of premium dollars on medical costs, which is what McDonald’s has an issue with. According to reports, the company worries that forcing these ratios will force franchises out of business. McDonald’s says it may have to change its current insurance plan.

Government officials say they’re working closely with business like McDonald’s to work through issues with the insurance ratios. “Medical-loss ratios are important because they demonstrate to the employer or family that premium dollars are being used on health care,” Illinois Department of Insurance Director Michael McRaith told the Kansas City Star. McRaith and other insuranc commissioners are developing guidelines on medical-loss ratios for the Obama administration. The government plans to issue guidance about the ratios by the end of the year so that companies have a better idea as to what is considered a medical expense and what isn’t.

Everyone is seeking new and less expensive ways to get health insurance. The costs of having health insurance are often too taxing but the risks of not having health insurance are so potentially devastating that not having health insurance is inconceivable.

When you look for a new job then insurance matters are probably not the foremost thoughts on your mind. While you will be thinking about maintaining your health insurance coverage, you will be more focused on advancing your career, trying something new, or just enjoying gainful employment.