o90% employer-paid medical insurance premiums for employees;

o86 – 88% employer-paid medical insurance premiums for dependents;

o401(k) plan with a 100% match up to 4% deferred; average employee deferral of 5.7%;

oDefined benefit pension plan that is fully funded;

o100% employer-paid premiums for short- and long-term disability insurance; and

oMedical, Dental, Vision and prescription drug coverage for retirees.

For GTE FCU, employee education is key to not only keeping medical insurance costs down, but also helping its employees stay financially fit. In addition to a modest 5% increase in medical costs in 2006, the credit union helps staffers get their finances in order by bringing in an outside financial planner to meet one-on-one with them. Other benefit highlights include the following:

o87% employer-paid medical insurance premiums for employees;

o50% employer-paid medical insurance premiums for dependents;

o401(k) plan with a 75% match up to 6% deferred; average employee deferral of 6.7%;

oDefined benefit pension plan; and

o100% employer-paid medical and prescription drug coverage for retirees.

"The Principal 10 Best shows there are employers who understand that there is tremendous value in providing great employee benefits programs. Individuals make job choices and make life choices because of them. This recognition tells the community, current employees and job prospects that this is an employer of choice," said Dallas Salisbury, president/CEO, Employee Benefit Research Institute and judging panel member.

Key trends among this year's winners range from an expanded commitment to wellness programs and more autopilot retirement savings options, to a growing focus on retirement income security and stronger education and workplace guidance.

Rounding out The Principal 10 Best Companies–2006 are: Argon ST, Inc., Fairfax, Va.; Central Iowa Power Cooperative, Cedar Rapids, Iowa; ITAGroup. Inc., West Des Moines, Iowa; Howalt-McDowell Insurance, Inc., Sioux Falls, S.D.; McNaughton & Gunn, Saline, Mich.; Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies, Lansing, Mich.; Wells Real Estate Funds, Inc., Norcross, Ga.; and West Bend Mutual Insurance Company, West Bend, Wis. –[email protected]