Plan design and premiums are established on an annual basis by ERS in accordance with state regulations. Coverage begins as of the first day of employment in an insurance eligible position. A new employee has a 31 day period during which to select optional insurance coverage or decline coverage and submit application to the Human Resources Department. If the employee does not submit an enrollment form within 31 days, they must remain in the basic plan for the balance of the plan year.
Dependent coverage is also available on an optional basis as of the employee's eligibility date.
Eligible dependents include the spouse of the employee and unmarried children under age 25. The cost of dependent coverage selected in excess of the university's contribution is paid by the employee through payroll deductions. Insurance coverage is available from the date of employment to termination. Coverage may be continued indefinitely for qualified retirees. Group health and dental insurance coverage may be extended for insured dependents of an active employee for specified reasons for a period of up to 36 months.