Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there pre-existing condition limitations when I enroll in the medical plan?
There are no pre-existing condition limitations under your new plan.
When can my dependents be added to my health and dental plans?
New employees may add a spouse and/or children within the first 30 days of employment or during the annual open enrollment. Thereafter, enrollment periods are within 31 days of a change in family status. Examples of a qualified change in family status include: birth, adoption, change in marital status, death of spouse or dependent, and/or change in spouse employment status. Evidence for these changes, such as a marriage license, birth certificate or adoption decree will be required.
How long can my children be insured as my dependents?
Children may remain insured as dependents until their 26th birthday if they do not have access to other employer-sponsored coverage. (regardless of full-time student status, dependent status, marital status or residing at home) Children who cease to be eligible as dependents may continue coverage on their own by paying the full cost for up to 36 months under a federal law referred to as COBRA. It is your responsibility to notify Human Resources if the dependent ceases to be a full-time student or marries prior to the next recertification period.
What happens to my insurance in the event of a layoff, illness, or other types of leave?
The health, dental, and life plans may be continued during seasonal layoff, illness, family and medical or educational leaves without pay. If you are on paid leave the insurance premium will be deducted from the paycheck. Otherwise, it is your responsibility to send in your premiums in a timely fashion. Failure to pay apremium will result in termination of the health, dental, and life coverage until you return to work. Reenrollment in some plans will be subject to evidence of good health.
What happens to my insurance during a period of personal leave without pay?
If you are on a personal leave without pay, you may continue coverage for up to 6 months subject to your payment of 100% of the premium, which includes the employer contribution. It is your responsibility to send in your premiums in a timely fashion. Failure to pay the premium will result in termination of the health, dental and life coverage until you return to work. Re-enrollment in some plans will be subject to evidence of good health.
What happens to my insurance when I resign or my contract ends?
Persons leaving employment at the University are entitled to continue the health, and dental coverage for up to 18 months under a federal law referred to as COBRA. Cost of coverage is borne fully by the employee. Notice of the COBRA Continuation Option is sent to employees by Human Resources soon after their resignation or appointment ending date.
Is there term life insurance coverage available for my family and myself?
All eligible employees automatically have employer-paid life insurance equal to $50,000. You can elect to purchase additional life insurance at your own cost. Optional coverage for your spouse and/or children is also available at your own cost. Enrollment in the optional plans is guaranteed within the first 30 days of employment (up to $200,000 for employees, up to $50,000 for spouses); thereafter evidence of good health is required. For more information, contact Human Resources.
Is there Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage available?
The University provides accidental death and dismemberment coverage for eligible employees at no charge. The value of the policy is $50,000.
Does the University make any contributions into my retirement plan?
Yes, the University makes a contribution equal to 5% of your base annual salary, when you contribute a minimum of 5%. You can begin your contributions to the retirement plan immediately. However, there is a one year waiting period before the University makes their 5% contribution, which may be waived under certain circumstances.
Where do I get information regarding the pension plan?
You need to contact TIAA-CREF directly. Their toll free number is 1.800.842.2776.
What tax-deferred savings plans are available?
Tax deferred plans are available through TIAA-CREF.
How do I report a change in status such as a change of address or a change in my dependents status?
Contact Human Resources or make the change on MU Online.