Collage

Employee Benefits:
Frequently Asked Questions

Q.
I am getting married soon. Can I add my new spouse and/or stepchild (ren) to my coverage or do I have to wait until there is an open enrollment period?
A.
You have 60 days from the date of marriage to add your spouse and/or stepchild (ren) to your health and/or dental coverage. After 60 days you can add them during the annual open enrollment period or through a "special enrollment" or "late enrollment' event. The latter applies to health coverage only. You must provide a copy of your marriage certificate as well as your spouse's social security number and sign the appropriate document(s) prior to the converge going into effect. The effective date of coverage is the first of the month following notification to Human Resources.
Q.
I am expecting a baby soon. Can I add my baby to my coverage?
A.
You have within 60 days from the date of birth or adoption placement (under age 18) to add a child to your medical and/or dental coverage. After 60 days, you can add the child during the annual open enrollment period or through a "special enrollment" or "late enrollment" event. The latter applies to health coverage only. The effective date will be the first of the month following the child's birth date or date of adoption. You must contact Human Resources and sign the appropriate documents.
Q.
My dependent child just turned age 19. Is he/she still covered?
A.
Dependent children may be covered to age 23 as long as they are unmarried, have never been married and are economically dependent upon the employee. If mentally or physically challenged, special rules apply.
Q.
Can my grandchild or niece/nephew be covered under my health plan?
A.
If the child is under age 18, unmarried, living in a parent-child relationship and is economically dependent upon the employee he/she may be covered under the employee's health plan. Please contact Human Resources to complete the required documents, including an "Affidavit of Eligibility".
Q.
Can my dependent parent's be covered?
A.
No. Even if totally dependent on the employee, parents are not eligible for coverage.
Q.
I am resigning or my appointment expires at the end of the month. How long will my coverage be I effect?
A.
Coverage is effective through the end of the following month in which you resign or the appointment ends. If you work a few days into a pay period, the State Controller's Office will deduct any required premiums as long as there is enough net pay to cover the premium.
Q.
Can I continue my health benefits if I resign or when my appointment expires?
A.
Yes. COBRA provides you the option of continuing your medical, dental and/or vision plans for up to 18 months (or longer in some cases). You would be responsible for paying the entire premium amount to the carriers, plus a 2% administrative fee. COBRA also applies to dependents who lose coverage.