Open enrollment for state employees in higher education begins Nov. 1 and ends Nov. 30. The open enrollment period is your only chance to change your benefits coverage unless you are hired after the open enrollment period or have a qualifying life event such as a new child. Benefit changes you select during the open enrollment period take effect on Jan. 1, 2017.
If you do nothing, your current benefits will continue with the exception of the flexible spending arrangement (FSA) and the dependent care assistance program (DCAP). You must re-enroll in these two programs each year during the open enrollment period. Additionally, if you wish to add or continue to cover a spouse or state-registered domestic partner on your medical plan in 2017, you must attest to the premium surcharge. A special feature of this open enrollment period is a one-time opportunity to increase your life insurance coverage from MetLife, which is the new life insurance carrier for the public employee benefits board.
During open enrollment you can also:
- Change medical and dental plans.
- Remove or add an eligible dependent to your health plan coverage.
- Enroll in previously waived medical coverage.
- Waive medical coverage if you are enrolled in other employer-based group medical insurance, TRICARE or Medicare.
To find how more about your benefits coverage for 2017, go to the public employee benefits section of the Health Care Authority website or attend one of the UW employee benefits fairs.
UW Employee Benefits Fairs
Tuesday, Nov. 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Health Science Building Lobby
1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA
Wednesday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Harborview Medical Center
Research & Training Building
300 9th Avenue, Seattle WA
Thursday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
HUB, North Ballroom, 2nd Floor
UW, Seattle campus
For a full list of UW benefits events and locations, go here.