Benefit can be used as a noun, a transivite verb, or an intransitive verb. It is not often used as a verb in everyday conversations, but depending on the context, it might be. As a noun: They offered him a free health insurance and other benefits. As a transitive verb: A health program can benefit everyone. An an intransitive verb: I benefit from every mistake. Hope that helps.

Yes, it is quite usual to use the verb with an object. But you can also use it intransitively, or, of course, as a noun.