Benefit Contact Information
Higginbotham Public Sector (833) 453-1680 www.txescbenefits.com
BCBSTX (866) 355-5999
www.bcbstx.com/trsactivecare
West Texas HMO Blue Essentials (844) 633-5325
www.trs.swhp.org TELEHEALTH
MDLIVE (888) 365-1663 www.mdlive.com/fbs
Aetna
Group #802613 (855) 513-9865
www.aetna.com
The Hartford Group #395331 (866) 547-9124 www.thehartford.com
5Star Life Insurance (866) 863-9753 www.5starlifeinsurance.com
Find HSA vendor contact details at www.txescbenefits.com
Cigna
Group #3309408 (800) 244-6224
www.mycigna.com
CHUBB (888) 499-0425
National Benefit Services (800) 274-0503 www.nbsbenefits.com
Superior Vision Group #27244-01/17 (800) 507-3800 www.superiorvision.com
CHUBB (888) 499-0425
CHUBB (888) 499-0425
Cigna
Group #3309408 (800) 244-6224
www.mycigna.com
MASA (800) 423-3226
www.masamts.com
Lincoln Financial Group (800) 423-2765 www.lfg.com
ID Watchdog (800) 774-3772
www.idwatchdog.com
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Enter your Information
• Last Name
• Date of Birth
• Last Four (4) of Social Security Number
NOTE: THEbenefitsHUB uses this information to check behind the scenes to confirm your employment status.
Once confirmed, the Additional Security Verification page will list the contact options from your profile. Select either Text, Email, Call, or Ask Admin options to receive a code to complete the final verification step.
Enter the code that you receive and click Verify. You can now complete your benefits enrollment!
Annual Benefit Enrollment
Annual Enrollment
During your annual enrollment period, you have the opportunity to review, change or continue benefit elections each year. Changes are not permitted during the plan year (outside of annual enrollment) unless a Section 125 qualifying event occurs.
• Changes, additions or drops may be made only during the annual enrollment period without a qualifying event.
• Employees must review their personal information and verify that dependents they wish to provide coverage for are included in the dependent profile. Additionally, you must notify your employer of any discrepancy in personal and/or benefit information.
• Employees must confirm on each benefit screen (medical, dental, vision, etc.) that each dependent to be covered is selected in order to be included in the coverage for that particular benefit.
New Hire Enrollment
All new hire enrollment elections must be completed in the online enrollment system within the first 30 days of benefit eligible employment. Failure to complete elections during this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of coverage.
Q&A
Who do I contact with Questions?
For supplemental benefit questions, you can contact your Benefits Office or you can call Higginbotham Public Sector at 866-914-5202 for assistance.
Where can I find forms?
For benefit summaries and claim forms, go to your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com. Click the benefit plan you need information on (i.e., Dental) and you can find the forms you need under the Benefits and Forms section.
How can I find a Network Provider?
For benefit summaries and claim forms, go to the MRIC benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com. Click on the benefit plan you need information on (i.e., Dental) and you can find provider search links under the Quick Links section.
When will I receive ID cards?
If the insurance carrier provides ID cards, you can expect to receive those 3-4 weeks after your effective date. For most dental and vision plans, you can log in to the carrier website and print a temporary ID card or simply give your provider the insurance company’s phone number, and they can call and verify your coverage if you do not have an ID card at that time. If you do not receive your ID card, you can call the carrier’s customer service number to request another card.
If the insurance carrier provides ID cards, but there are no changes to the plan, you typically will not receive a new ID card each year.
Annual Benefit Enrollment
Section 125 Cafeteria Plan Guidelines
A Cafeteria plan enables you to save money by using pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible group insurance premiums sponsored and offered by your employer. Enrollment is automatic unless you decline this benefit. Elections made during annual enrollment will become effective on the plan effective date and will remain in effect during the entire plan year.
CHANGES IN STATUS (CIS):
Marital Status
Change in Number of Tax Dependents
Change in Status of Employment Affecting Coverage Eligibility
Gain/Loss of Dependents’ Eligibility Status
Judgment/ Decree/Order
Eligibility for Government Programs
Changes in benefit elections can occur only if you experience a qualifying event. You must present proof of a qualifying event to your Benefit Office within 30 days of your qualifying event and meet with your Benefits Office to complete and sign the necessary paperwork in order to make a benefit election change. Benefit changes must be consistent with the qualifying event.
QUALIFYING EVENTS
A change in marital status includes marriage, death of a spouse, divorce or annulment (legal separation is not recognized in all states).
A change in number of dependents includes the following: birth, adoption and placement for adoption. You can add existing dependents not previously enrolled whenever a dependent gains eligibility as a result of a valid change in status event.
Change in employment status of the employee, or a spouse or dependent of the employee, that affects the individual’s eligibility under an employer’s plan includes commencement or termination of employment.
An event that causes an employee’s dependent to satisfy or cease to satisfy coverage requirements under an employer’s plan may include change in age, student, marital, employment or tax dependent status.
If a judgment, decree, or order from a divorce, annulment or change in legal custody requires that you provide accident or health coverage for your dependent child (including a foster child who is your dependent), you may change your election to provide coverage for the dependent child. If the order requires that another individual (including your spouse and former spouse) covers the dependent child and provides coverage under that individual’s plan, you may change your election to revoke coverage only for that dependent child and only if the other individual actually provides the coverage.
Gain or loss of Medicare/Medicaid coverage may trigger a permitted election change.
Annual Benefit Enrollment
Employee Eligibility Requirements
Supplemental Benefits: Eligible employees must work 20 or more regularly scheduled hours each work week.
Eligible employees must be actively at work on the plan effective date for new benefits to be effective, meaning you are physically capable of performing the functions of your job on the first day of work concurrent with the plan effective date. For example, if your 2024 benefits become effective on September 1, 2024, you must be actively-at-work on September 1, 2024 to be eligible for your new benefits.
Dependent Eligibility Requirements
Dependent Eligibility: You can cover eligible dependent children under a benefit that offers dependent coverage, provided you participate in the same benefit, through the maximum age listed below. Dependents cannot be double covered by married spouses within the district as both employees and dependents.
Please note, limits and exclusions may apply when obtaining coverage as a married couple or when obtaining coverage for dependents.
Potential Spouse Coverage Limitations: When enrolling in coverage, please keep in mind that some benefits may not allow you to cover your spouse as a dependent if your spouse is enrolled for coverage as an employee under the same employer. Review the applicable plan documents, contact Higginbotham Public Sector, or contact the insurance carrier for additional information on spouse eligibility.
FSA/HSA Limitations: Please note, in general, per IRS regulations, married couples may not enroll in both a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and a Health Savings Account (HSA). If your spouse is covered under an FSA that reimburses for medical expenses then you and your spouse are not HSA eligible, even if you would not use your spouse’s FSA to reimburse your expenses. However, there are some exceptions to the general limitation regarding specific types of FSAs. To obtain more information on whether you can enroll in a specific type of FSA or HSA as a married couple, please reach out to the FSA and/or HSA provider prior to enrolling or reach out to your tax advisor for further guidance.
Potential Dependent Coverage Limitations: When enrolling for dependent coverage, please keep in mind that some benefits may not allow you to cover your eligible dependents if they are enrolled for coverage as an employee under the same employer. Review the applicable plan documents, contact Higginbotham Public Sector, or contact the insurance carrier for additional information on dependent eligibility.
Disclaimer: You acknowledge that you have read the limitations and exclusions that may apply to obtaining spouse and dependent coverage, including limitations and exclusions that may apply to enrollment in Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts as a married couple. You, the enrollee, shall hold harmless, defend, and indemnify Higginbotham Public Sector from any and all claims, actions, suits, charges, and judgments whatsoever that arise out of the enrollee’s enrollment in spouse and/or dependent coverage, including enrollment in Flexible Spending Accounts and
Accounts.
If your dependent is disabled, coverage may be able to continue past the maximum age under certain plans. If you have a disabled dependent who is reaching an ineligible age, you must provide a physician’s statement confirming your dependent’s disability. Contact your Benefits Office to request a continuation of coverage.
Description
Health Savings Account (HSA)
(IRC Sec. 223)
Approved by Congress in 2003, HSAs are actual bank accounts in employee’s names that allow employees to save and pay for unreimbursed qualified medical expenses tax-free.
Employer Eligibility A qualified high deductible health plan
Contribution Source Employee and/or employer
Account Owner Individual
Underlying Insurance
Requirement High deductible health plan
Minimum Deductible
Maximum Contribution
Permissible Use Of Funds
Cash-Outs of Unused Amounts (if no medical expenses)
Year-to-year rollover of account balance?
Does the account earn interest?
Portable?
$1,600 single (2024)
$3,200 family (2024)
$4,150 single (2024)
$8,300 family (2024) 55+ catch up +$1,000
Employees may use funds any way they wish. If used for non-qualified medical expenses, subject to current tax rate plus 20% penalty.
Flexible
Spending Account (FSA)
(IRC Sec. 125)
Allows employees to pay out-of-pocket expenses for copays, deductibles and certain services not covered by medical plan, taxfree. This also allows employees to pay for qualifying dependent care tax-free.
All employers
Employee and/or employer
Employer
None
N/A
$3,200 (2024)
Reimbursement for qualified medical expenses (as defined in Sec. 213(d) of IRC).
Permitted, but subject to current tax rate plus 20% penalty (penalty waived after age 65). Not permitted
Yes, will roll over to use for subsequent year’s health coverage.
Yes
No. Access to some funds may be extended if your employer’s plan contains a 2 1/2 –month grace period or $550 rollover provision.
No
Yes, portable year-to-year and between jobs. No
Medical Insurance
Major medical insurance is a type of health care coverage that provides benefits for a broad range of medical expenses that may be incurred either on an inpatient or outpatient basis.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
The falls in Region 9 might be small, but your TRS-ActiveCare network is the largest in the state.
Learn the Terms.
• Premium: The monthly amount you pay for health care coverage.
• Deductible: The annual amount for medical expenses you’re responsible to pay before your plan begins to pay.
• Copay: The set amount you pay for a covered service at the time you receive it. The amount can vary based on the service.
• Coinsurance: The portion you’re required to pay for services after you meet your deductible. It’s often a specified percentage of the costs; e.g., you pay 20% while the health care plan pays 80%.
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The maximum amount you pay each year for medical costs. After reaching the out-of-pocket maximum, the plan pays 100% of allowable charges for covered services.
TRS contracts with HMOs in certain regions to bring participants in those areas additional options. HMOs set their own rates and premiums. They’re fully insured products who pay their own claims.
Blue Essentials - South Texas HMOSM Brought to you by TRS-ActiveCare
You can choose this plan if you live in one of these counties: Cameron, Hildalgo, Starr, Willacy
Blue Essentials - West Texas HMOSM Brought to you by TRS-ActiveCare
You can choose this plan if you live in one of these counties: Andrews, Armstrong, Bailey, Borden, Brewster, Briscoe, Callahan, Carson, Castro, Childress, Cochran, Coke, Coleman, Collingsworth, Comanche, Concho, Cottle, Crane, Crockett, Crosby, Dallam, Dawson, Deaf Smith, Dickens, Donley, Eastland, Ector, Fisher, Floyd, Gaines, Garza, Glasscock, Gray, Hale, Hall, Hansford, Hartley, Haskell, Hemphill, Hockley, Howard, Hutchinson, Irion, Jones, Kent, Kimble, King, Knox, Lamb, Lipscomb, Llano, Loving, Lubbock, Lynn, Martin, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Midland, Mitchell, Moore, Motley, Nolan, Ochiltree, Oldham, Parmer, Pecos, Potter, Randall, Reagan, Reeves, Roberts, Runnels, San Saba, Schleicher, Scurry, Shackelford, Sherman, Stephens, Sterling, Stonewall, Sutton, Swisher, Taylor, Terry, Throckmorton, Tom Green, Upton, Ward, Wheeler, Winkler, Yoakum
ABOUT TELEHEALTH
Telehealth provides 24/7/365 access to board-certified doctors via telephone or video consultations that can diagnose, recommend treatment and prescribe medication. Telehealth makes care more convenient and accessible for non-emergency care when your primary care physician is not available.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
Alongside your medical coverage is access to quality telehealth services through MDLIVE. Connect anytime day or night with a board-certified doctor via your mobile device or computer. While MDLIVE does not replace your primary care physician, it is a convenient and cost-effective option when you need care and:
• Have a non-emergency issue and are considering a convenience care clinic, urgent care clinic or emergency room for treatment
• Are on a business trip, vacation or away from home
• Are unable to see your primary care physician
When to Use MDLIVE:
At a cost that is the same or less than a visit to your physician, use telehealth services for minor conditions such as:
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Stomachache
• Cold
• Flu
• Allergies
• Fever
• Urinary tract infections
Do not use telemedicine for serious or life-threatening emergencies.
Registration is Easy
• Register with MDLIVE so you are ready to use this valuable service when and where you need it.
• Online – www.mdlive.com/fbs
• Phone – 888-365-1663
• Mobile – download the MDLIVE mobile app to your smartphone or mobile device
• Select –“MDLIVE as a benefit” and “FBS” as your Employer/Organization when registering your account.
Check with your employer to see if this benefit is available at no cost to you
Health Savings Account (HSA)
ABOUT HSA
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a personal savings account where the money can only be used for eligible medical expenses. Unlike a flexible spending account (FSA), the money rolls over year to year however only those funds that have been deposited in your account can be used. Contributions to a Health Savings Account can only be used if you are also enrolled in a High Deductible Health Care Plan (HDHP).
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is more than a way to help you and your family cover health care costs – it is also a tax-exempt tool to supplement your retirement savings and cover health expenses during retirement. An HSA can provide the funds to help pay current health care expenses as well as future health care costs.
A type of personal savings account, an HSA is always yours even if you change health plans or jobs. The money in your HSA (including interest and investment earnings) grows taxfree and spends tax-free if used to pay for qualified medical expenses. There is no “use it or lose it” rule — you do not lose your money if you do not spend it in the calendar year — and there are no vesting requirements or forfeiture provisions. The account automatically rolls over year after year.
HSA Eligibility
You are eligible to open and contribute to an HSA if you are:
• Enrolled in an HSA-eligible HDHP (TSHBP HD & Aetna HD)
• Not covered by another plan that is not a qualified HDHP, such as your spouse’s health plan
• Not enrolled in a Health Care Flexible Spending Account, nor should your spouse be contributing towards a Health Care Flexible Spending Account
• Not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return
• Not enrolled in Medicare or TRICARE Not receiving Veterans Administration benefits
You can use the money in your HSA to pay for qualified medical expenses now or in the future. You can also use HSA funds to pay health care expenses for your dependents, even if they are not covered under your HDHP.
Maximum Contributions
Your HSA contributions may not exceed the annual maximum amount established by the Internal Revenue Service. The annual contribution maximum for 2024 is based on the coverage option you elect:
• Individual – $4,150
• Family (filing jointly) – $8,300 You decide whether to use the money in your account to pay for qualified expenses or let it grow for future use. If you are 55 or older, you may make a yearly catch-up contribution of up to $1,000 to your HSA. If you turn 55 at any time during the plan year, you are eligible to make the catch-up contribution for the entire plan year.
Important HSA Information
• Always ask your health care provider to file claims with your medical provider so network discounts can be applied. You can pay the provider with your HSA debit card based on the balance due after discount.
• You, not your employer, are responsible for maintaining ALL records and receipts for HSA reimbursements in the event of an IRS audit.
“ ” ’
returns); (b) your taxable compensation; (c) your spouse’s actual or deemed earned income.
“Register” in the top right corner, and follow the
Hospital Indemnity Aetna
ABOUT HOSPITAL INDEMNITY
This is an affordable supplemental plan that pays you should you be inpatient hospital confined. This plan complements your health insurance by helping you pay for costs left unpaid by your health insurance.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
The Hospital Indemnity Plan provided through Aetna helps with the high cost of medical care by paying you a set amount when you have an inpatient hospital stay. Unlike traditional insurance, which pays a benefit to the hospital or doctor, this plan pays you directly based on the care or treatment you receive. These costs may include meals and transportation, childcare or time away from work due to a medical issue that requires hospitalization.
If you need to submit a claim you do so on the Aetna portal at myaetnasupplemental.com
Rehabilitation unit stay- Daily- Pays a benefit each day of your stay in a rehabilitation unit immediately after your hospital stay due to an illness or accidental injury. Maximum 30 days per plan year.
Important Note: All daily inpatient stay benefits begin on day two and count toward the plan year maximum.
Dental PPO Insurance
ABOUT DENTAL
Dental insurance is a coverage that helps defray the costs of dental care. It insures against the expense of routine care, dental treatment and disease.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
Our dental plan helps you maintain good oral health through affordable options for preventive care, including regular checkups and other dental work. Premium contributions are deducted from your paycheck on a pretax basis. Coverage is provided through Cigna Dental.
DPPO Plan
Two levels of benefits are available with the DPPO plan: innetwork and out-of-network. You may select the dental provider of your choice, but your level of coverage may vary based on the provider you see for services. You could pay more if you use an out-of-network provider.
How to Find a Dentist
Visit https://hcpdirectory.cigna.com/ or call 800-244-6224 to find an in-network dentist.
How to Request a New ID Card
You can request your dental id card by contacting Cigna directly at 800-244-6224. You can also go to www.mycigna.com and register/login to access your account. In addition you can download the “MyCigna” app on your smartphone and access your id card right there on your phone.
Dental PPO Insurance
Class III Benefit Waiting Period applies for 12 months. Applies to New Hires Only
Class III: Major Restorative Inlays and Onlays, Prosthesis Over Implant, Crowns: prefabricated stainless steel / resin, Crowns: permanent cast and porcelain, Bridges and Dentures, Oral Surgery: major, Endodontics: minor and major, Periodontics: minor and major
Class III Benefit Waiting Period applies for 12 months. Applies to New Hires Only
Class IV: Orthodontia
for Dependent Children to age 19 Class IV
$50,
In-Network Reimbursement
Non-Network Reimbursement
For services provided by a Cigna Dental PPO network dentist, Cigna Dental will reimburse the dentist according to a Fee Schedule or Discount Schedule.
For services provided by a non-network dentist, Cigna Dental will reimburse according to the Maximum Reimbursable Charge. The MRC is calculated at the 90th percentile of all provider charges in the geographic area. The dentist may balance bill up to their usual fees.
Vision Insurance
Superior Vision
ABOUT VISION
Vision insurance helps cover the cost of care for maintaining healthy vision. Similar to an annual checkup at your family doctor, routine eyecare is necessary to ensure that your eyes are healthy and to check for any signs of eye conditions or diseases . Most plans cover your routine eye exam with a copay and provide an allowance for Frames or Contact Lenses.
www.txescbenefits.com
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.mybenefitshub.com/mric
Superior Vision Customer Service 1-800-507-3800
An overview of your vision benefits
• In-network benefits available through network eye care professionals.
• Find an in-network eye care professional at superiorvision.com. Call your eye doctor to verify network participation.
• Obtain a vision exam with either an MD or OD.
• Flexibility to use different eye care professionals for exam and for eyewear.
• Access your benefits through our mobile app – Display member ID card – view your member ID card in full screen or save to wallet .
Our network is built to support you.
• We manage one of the largest eye care professional networks in the country .
• The network includes 50 of the top 50 national retailers. Examples include:
• In-network online retail Providers :
Additional discounts
Members may also receive additional discounts, including 20% off lens upgrades and 30% off additional pairs of glasses.*
Access to LASIK discounts
A LASIK discount is available to all covered members. Our Discounted LASIK services are administered by QualSight. Visit lasik.sv.qualsight.com to learn more.
Access to hearing aid discounts
Members save up to 40% on brand name hearing aids and have access to a nationwide network of licensed hearing professionals through Your Hearing Network. *Discounts are provided by
Disability Insurance The Hartford
ABOUT DISABILITY
Disability insurance protects one of your most valuable assets, your paycheck. This insurance will replace a portion of your income in the event that you become physically unable to work due to sickness or injury for an extended period of time.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
What is Educator Disability Insurance?
Educator Disability insurance is a hybrid that combines features of shortterm and long-term disability into one plan. Disability insurance provides partial income protection if you are unable to work due to a covered accident or illness. The plan gives you flexibility to be able to choose an amount of coverage and waiting period that suits your needs. We offer Educator Disability insurance for you to purchase through The Hartford. If you need to file a claim, contact The Hartford at 866-278-2655 with your group # 395331. Full instructions can be found at www.txescbenefits.com
Actively at Work: You must be at work with your Employer on your regularly scheduled workday. On that day, you must be performing for wage or profit all of your regular duties in the usual way and for your usual number of hours. If school is not in session due to normal vacation or school break(s), Actively at Work shall mean you are able to report for work with your Employer, performing all of the regular duties of Your Occupation in the usual way for your usual number of hours as if school was in session.
Benefit Amount: You may purchase coverage that will pay you a monthly flat dollar benefit in $100 increments between $200 and $8,000 that cannot exceed 66 2/3% of your current monthly earnings. Earnings are defined in The Hartford’s contract with your employer.
Elimination Period: You must be disabled for at least the number of days indicated by the elimination period that you select before you can receive a Disability benefit payment. The elimination period that you select consists of two numbers. The first number shows the number of days you must be disabled by an accident before your benefits can begin. The second number indicates the number of days you must be disabled by a sickness before your benefits can begin.
For those employees electing an elimination period of 30 days or less, if you are confined to a hospital for 24 hours or more due to a disability, the elimination period will be waived, and benefits will be payable from the first day of hospitalization.
Definition of Disability: Disability is defined as The Hartford’s contract with your employer. Typically, disability means that you cannot perform one or more of the essential duties of your occupation due to injury, sickness, pregnancy or other medical conditions covered by the insurance, and as a result, your current monthly earnings are 80% or less of your pre-disability earnings. One you have been disabled for 24
months, you must be prevented from performing one or more essential duties of any occupation, and as a result, your monthly earnings are 66 2/3% or less of your pre-disability earnings.
Pre-Existing Condition Limitation: Your policy limits the benefits you can receive for a disability caused by a pre-existing condition. In general, if you were diagnosed or received care for a disabling condition within the 3 consecutive months just prior to the effective date of this policy, your benefit payment will be limited, unless: You have not received treatment for the disabling condition within 3 months, while insured under this policy, before the disability begins, or You have been insured under this policy for 12 months before your disability begins. If your disability is a result of a pre-existing condition, we will pay benefits for a maximum of 4 weeks.
Maximum Benefit Duration: Benefit Duration is the maximum time for which we pay benefits for disability resulting from sickness or injury. Depending on the schedule selected and the age at which disability occurs, the maximum duration may vary. Please see the applicable schedules on the plan summary document that can be found at www.txescbenefits.com for full details.
Benefit Integration: Your benefit may be reduced by other income you receive or are eligible to receive due to your disability, such as:
• Social Security Disability Insurance
• State Teacher Retirement Disability Plans
• Workers’ Compensation
• Other employer-based disability insurance coverage you may have
• Unemployment benefits
• Retirement benefits that your employer fully or partially pays for (such as a pension plan)
Educator Group Term Life Insurance Benefit Summary
Life insurance is an important part of your employee benefits package. Chubb Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance provides the protection your family needs if something were to happen to you. Your family can receive cash benefits paid directly to them that they can use to help cover expenses like mortgage payments, credit card debt, childcare, college tuition, and other household expenses.
Voluntary Term Life and AD&D Insurance is made available for purchase by you and your family. Employees must be actively at work for at least 20 hours per week.
For You
Life and AD&D: Up to 7 times your annual earnings to a maximum of $500,000 in $10,000 increments
For Your Spouse
Life: $5,000 increments up to a maximum of $500,000 not to exceed 100% of employee amount
AD&D: 50% of employee amount to a maximum of $250,000
For Your Dependent Children
Life: Live birth to 6 months: $1,000
6 months to age 26: Up to $10,000 in $5,000 increments
AD&D: Live birth to 6 months: $1,000
6 months to age 26: 10% of employee’s amount to a maximum of $50,000
Reduction Schedule
65% at age 70
Additional Plan Benefits
Guaranteed Issue
Employee: $300,000 Spouse: $50,000 Child: $10,000
Newly eligible employees and dependents: You and your eligible dependents may elect coverage up to the guaranteed issue amounts without answering health questions. Elections over the guaranteed issue amounts will require medical underwriting.
Current employees: At subsequent annual enrollments if you or your eligible dependents are currently enrolled in the plan, you may increase your coverage up to the guaranteed issue amounts without answering health questions. All amounts over the guaranteed issue will require medical underwriting.
*Please note that if you or your dependents did not elect coverage when first eligible, then you are considered a late entrant. Late entrants will be medically underwritten and will have to answer health questions for any amount of coverage elected.
The AD&D plan provides additional protection for you and your dependents in the event of an accidental bodily injury resulting in death or dismemberment. In addition to standard dismemberment coverage, the following benefit provisions are included:
• Air Bag Benefit – The lesser of 5% of AD&D benefit or $5,000
• Child Care Expense Benefit – 5% of employee’s AD&D benefit up to $12,000 per year for 4 years
• Child Education Expense Benefit – 6% of employee’s AD&D benefit up to $6,000 for 6 years; maximum benefit $24,000
• Common Carrier Benefit – Included
• Elder Care Expense Benefit – The lesser of 1% of AD&D benefit or $500
• Exposure and Disappearance Benefit– Included
• Repatriation Expense Benefit – The lesser of $1,000 or the actual expense incurred
• Seatbelt Benefit – The lesser of 10% of AD&D benefit or $25,000
• Spouse Education Benefit – The lesser of 1% of AD&D benefit, $1,000, or the actual tuition expenses incurred
• Workplace Felonious Assault Benefit – 5% of AD&D benefit up to $10,000
Portability
You can elect portable coverage, at group rates, if you terminate employment, reduce hours or retire from the employer.
Conversion When your group coverage ends, you may convert your coverage to an individual life policy without providing evidence of insurability.
Monthly Costs for Voluntary Term Life/AD&D Insurance
You have the option to purchase Supplemental Term life Insurance. Listed below are the monthly rates.
Child Life monthly rate is $1.00 for $5,000 and $2.00 for $10,000. One premium covers all children.
Employee AD&D rate per $1,000 is $0.028 Family AD&D rate per $1,000 is $0.028
Term Life Exclusions*
No benefits will be paid for losses that are caused by, contributed to, or result from: 1) suicide, while sane or insane, occurring within 24 months after a Covered Person’s initial effective date of coverage; and 2) suicide, while sane or insane, occurring within two years after the date any increases in or additional coverage applied for becomes effective for a Covered Person.
Accidental Death And Dismemberment Benefit Exclusions*
The Policy does not cover: 1) an infection not occurring as a direct result or consequence of Accidental Bodily Injury; 2) loss caused or contributed to by attempted suicide, while sane or insane; 3) loss caused or contributed to by intentionally self-inflicted harm, while sane or insane; 4) loss caused or contributed to by war or act of war; 5) loss caused or contributed to by active participation in a riot, insurrection; or terrorist activity; 6) loss caused or contributed to by committing or attempting to commit a felony; 7) loss caused or materially contributed to by voluntary intake or use by any means of any drug, unless: a. prescribed or administered by a Physician and taken in accordance with the Physician’s instructions; or b. an over-the-counter drug, taken in accordance with the instructions; 8) loss caused or contributed to being intoxicated as defined by the jurisdiction where the Accident occurred; and 9) loss caused or materially contributed to by participation in an illegal occupation or activity.
Questions?
Contact the FBS Benefits CareLine via the QR code or (833) 453-1680
*Please refer to your Certificate of Insurance at https://www.mybenefitshub.com/region2 for a complete listing of available benefits, limitations and exclusions. Underwritten by ACE Property & Casualty Company, a Chubb company.
Optional Term Life Insurance
Benefit Summary
Life insurance is an important part of your employee benefits package. Chubb Optional Term Life insurance provides the protection your family needs if something were to happen to you. Your family can receive cash benefits paid directly to them that they can use to help cover expenses like mortgage payments, credit card debt, childcare, college tuition and other household expenses.
Optional Term Life Insurance is made available for purchase by you and your family. Employees must be actively at work for at least 20 hours per week.
Life Insurance
For You
Up to 7 times your annual earnings to a maximum of $75,000 in $15,000 increments
For Your Spouse/Dependent Children
Option 1: $5,000/$1,000
Option 2: $10,000/$2,000
Dependent life coverage can be purchased without purchasing employee life coverage.
Reduction Schedule
None
Guaranteed Issue
Employee: $75,000 Spouse: $10,000 Child: $2,000
Newly eligible employees and dependents: You and your eligible dependents may elect coverage up to the guaranteed issue amounts without answering health questions.
Current employees: At subsequent annual enrollments if you or your eligible dependents are currently enrolled in the plan, you may increase your coverage up to the guaranteed issue amounts without answering health questions.
*Please note that if you or your dependents did not elect coverage when first eligible, then you are considered a late entrant. Late entrants will be medically underwritten and will have to answer health questions for any amount of coverage elected.
Additional Plan Benefits
Definitions and Provisions
Portability You can elect portable coverage, at group rates, if you terminate employment, reduce hours or retire from the employer.
Conversion When your group coverage ends, you may convert your coverage to an individual life policy without providing evidence of insurability.
Monthly Costs for Optional Term Life
You may purchase Optional Term life Insurance. Listed below are the monthly rates. Dependent life coverage can be purchased without purchasing employee life coverage.
Term Life Exclusions*
No benefits will be paid for losses that are caused by, contributed to, or result from: 1) suicide, while sane or insane, occurring within 24 months after a Covered Person’s initial effective date of coverage; and 2) suicide, while sane or insane, occurring within two years after the date any increases in or additional coverage applied for becomes effective for a Covered Person.
Questions?
Contact the FBS Benefits CareLine via the QR code or (833) 453-1680
*Please refer to your Certificate of Insurance at https://www.mybenefitshub.com/region2 for a complete listing of available benefits, limitations and exclusions. Underwritten by ACE Property & Casualty Company, a Chubb company.
Family Protection Plan
Group Term Life Insurance to age 121 with Quality of Life
Make a smart choice to help protect your loved ones and your future.
Life doesn’t come with a lesson plan
Life doesn’t come with a lesson plan
Help protect your family with the Family Protection Plan Group Level Term Life Insurance to age 121.You can get coverage for your spouse even if you don’t elect coverage on yourself. And you can cover your financially dependent children and grandchildren (14 days to 26 years old).The coverage lasts until age 121 for all insured,* so no matter what the future brings, your family is protected.
Help protect your family with the Family Protection Plan Group Level Term Life Insurance to age 121. You can get coverage for your spouse even if you don’t elect coverage on yourself. And you can cover your financially dependent children and grandchildren (14 days to 26 years old). The coverage lasts until age 121 for all insured,* so no matter what the future brings, your family is protected.
Why buy life insurance when you’re young?
Buying life insurance when you’re younger allows you to take advantage of lower premium rates while you’re generally healthy, which allows you to purchase more insurance coverage for the future. This is especially important if you have dependents who rely on your income, or you have debt that would need to be paid off.
Portable
Portable
Coverage continues with no loss of benefits or increase in cost if you terminate employment after the first premium is paid. We simply bill you directly.
Coverage continues with no loss of benefits or increase in cost if you terminate employment after the first premium is paid. We simply bill you directly.
Why is portability important?
Life moves fast so having a portable life insurance allows you to keep your coverage if you leave your school district. Keeping the coverage helps you ensure your family is protected even into your retirement years.
44% of American households would encounter significant financial difficulties within six months if they lost the primary family wage earner. 28% would reach this point in one month or less.
Family Protection Plan
Group Term
Terminal illness acceleration of benefits
Coverage pays 30% (25% in CT and MI) of the coverage amount in a lump sum upon the occurrence of a terminal condition that will result in a limited life span of less than 12 months (24 months in IL).
Protection you can count on
Within one business day of notification, payment of 50% of coverage or $10,000 whichever is less is mailed to the beneficiary, unless the death is within the two-year contestability period and/or under investigation. This coverage has no war or terrorism exclusions.
Convenient
Easy payment through payroll deduction.
Quality of Life benefit
Optional benefit that accelerates a portion of the death benefit on a monthly basis, up to 75% of your benefit, and is payable directly to you on a tax favored basis* for the following:
•Permanent inability to perform at least two of the six Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) without substantial assistance; or
•Permanent severe cognitive impairment, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of senility, requiring substantial supervision.
How does Quality of Life help?
Many individuals who can’t take care of themselves require special accommodations to perform ADLs and would need to make modifications to continue to live at home with physical limitation. The proceeds from the Quality of Life benefit can be used for any purpose, including costs for infacility care, home healthcare professionals, home modifications, and more.
2024 Enrollment Plan Year
Guaranteed Issue is offered to all eligible applicants regardless of health status. No Doctor exams or physicals.
Employee: $100,000 | Spouse: $30,000 | Child: $10,000
Enroll to provide peace of mind for your family
To do an initial enrollment or if you have questions please call our customer service at 866-914-5202. Monday - Friday | 8:00 am-6:00 pm CST
About the coverage
The Family Protection Plan offers a lump-sum cash benefit if you die before age 121. The initial death benefit is guaranteed to be level for at least the first ten policy years. Afterward, the company intends to provide a nonguaranteed death benefit enhancement which will maintain the initial death benefit level until age 121. The company has the right to discontinue this enhancement. The death benefit enhancement cannot be discontinued on a particular insured due to a change in age, health, or employment status.
Cancer Insurance CHUBB
ABOUT CANCER
Cancer insurance offers you and your family supplemental insurance protection in the event you or a covered family member is diagnosed with cancer. It pays a benefit directly to you to help with expenses associated with cancer treatment.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
Cash benefits when you need them most — Cancer Insurance from Chubb
A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be an emotionally and physically difficult time. Chubb is there to help support you by providing cash benefits paid directly to you. Benefits are paid if you are diagnosed with cancer, but also help cover many other cancer-related services such as doctor’s visits, treatments, specialty care, and recovery. However, there are no restrictions on how to use these cash benefits—so you can use them as you see fit.
Choose the right level of coverage during the enrollment period to better protect your family.
Cash benefits for every step of the way
$100
First
Diagnosis of cancer
Hospital confinement
Hospital confinement ICU
$5,000 employee or spouse
$7,500 child(ren)
Waiting period: 0 days
Benefit reduction: none
$100 per day – days 1 through 30
Additional days: $100
Maximum days per confinement: 31
$600 per day – days 1 through 30
Additional days: $600
Maximum days per confinement: 31
Maximum per covered person per calendar year per 12-month period: $10,000
$10,000 employee or spouse
$15,000 child(ren)
Waiting period: 0 days
Benefit reduction: none
$200 per day – days 1 through 30
Additional days: $200
Maximum days per confinement: 31
$600 per day – days 1 through 30
Additional days: $600
Maximum days per confinement: 31 Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy
Alternative care
Medical imaging
Skin cancer initial diagnosis
$75 per visit
Maximum visits per calendar year: 4
$500 per imaging study
Maximum studies per calendar year: 2
$100 per diagnosis
Lifetime maximum: 1
Maximum per covered person per calendar year per 12-month period: $20,000
$75 per visit
Maximum visits per calendar year: 4
$500 per imaging study
Maximum studies per calendar year: 2
$100 per diagnosis
Lifetime maximum: 1
Cancer Insurance CHUBB
Additional plan benefits
Renewability
Portability
Conditionally Renewable Coverage is automatically renewed as long as the insured is an eligible employee, premiums are paid as due, and the policy is in force.
Portability Employees can keep their coverage if they change jobs or retire while the policy is in-force. Continuity of coverage Included
Pre-existing conditions limitation
A condition for which a covered person received medical advice or treatment within the 12 months preceding the certificate effective date.
Waiver of premium Included
Definitions and provisions
Cancer means carcinoma in situ, leukemia, or a malignant tumor characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and invasion or spread of malignant cells to distant tissue. Cancer is also defined as cancer which meets the diagnosis criteria of malignancy established by the American Board of Pathology after a study of the histocytologic architecture or pattern of the suspect tumor, tissue, or specimen.
Definition of cancer
Carcinoma in situ means a malignant tumor which is typically classified as Stage 0 cancer, where the tumor cells still lie within the tissue of the site of origin without having invaded neighboring tissue.
The following are not considered cancer: Pre-malignant conditions or conditions with malignant potential; non-invasive basal cell carcinoma of the skin; non-invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin; or melanoma diagnosed as Clark’s Level I or II or Breslow less than .75mm.
Plan descriptions Refer to the Certificate of Coverage for details specific to each plan.
No benefits will be paid for a date of diagnosis or treatment of cancer prior to the coverage effective date, except where continuity of coverage applies.
No benefits will be paid for services rendered by a member of the immediate family of a covered person.
We will not pay benefits for other conditions or diseases, except losses due directly from cancer or skin cancer.
We will not pay benefits for cancer or skin cancer if the diagnosis or treatment of cancer is received outside of the territorial limits of the United States and its possessions. Benefits will be payable if the covered person returns to the territorial limits of the United States and its possessions, and a physician confirms the diagnosis or receives treatment.
Rates
Critical Illness Insurance Lincoln Financial Group
ABOUT CRITICAL ILLNESS
Critical illness insurance can be used towards medical or other expenses. It provides a lump sum benefit payable directly to the insured upon diagnosis of a covered condition or event, like a heart attack or stroke. The money can also be used for non-medical costs related to the illness, including transportation, child care, etc.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
The
Lincoln Critical Illness Insurance Plan:
• Provides cash benefits if you or a covered family member is diagnosed with a critical illness or event
• Benefits are paid in addition to what is covered under your health insurance
• Features group rates for employees
• Includes access to a personal health advocate who can assist you in managing healthcare services for you and your entire family
• There are no waiting periods or overall plan maximums
for you
• You
Coverage for your spouse
You can secure Critical Illness Insurance for your spouse when you choose coverage for yourself.
• You can choose from the coverage amount(s) for your spouse without completing evidence of insurability.
Coverage for your dependent children
You can elect Critical Illness Insurance for your dependent children when you choose coverage for yourself.
Critical Illness Insurance | Children
Guaranteed coverage amounts
Guaranteed coverage amounts
$10,000, $20,000 or $30,000 (up to 100% of the employee coverage amount)
• You can choose from the coverage amounts above for your dependent children
Critical Illness Insurance
Lincoln Financial Group
Note: See the policy for details and specific requirements for each of these benefits.
Accident Insurance Cigna
ABOUT ACCIDENT
Do you have kids playing sports, are you a weekend warrior, or maybe accident prone? Accident plans are designed to help pay for medical costs associated with accidents and benefits are paid directly to you.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
SUMMARY OF BENEFITS
Accidental Injury coverage provides a fixed cash benefit according to the schedule below when a Covered Person suffers certain Injuries or undergoes a broad range of medical treatments or care resulting from an injury.
Who Can Elect Coverage:
Eligibility for You, Your Spouse and Your Children will be considered by Your employer.
• You: All active, Full-time and Part-time Employees of the Employer who are regularly working in the United States a minimum of 15 hours per week and regularly residing in the United States and who are United States citizens or permanent resident aliens or non-United States citizens legally working and living in the United States (Inpats) and their Spouse, and Dependent Children who are United States citizens or permanent resident aliens or Spouse, or Dependent Child Inpats and who are legally residing in the United States who are not members of an employer paid plan. You will be eligible for coverage on the first of the month after 30 days from date of hire or Active Service.
• Your Spouse*: Up to age 100, as long as you apply for and are approved for coverage yourself.
• Your Child(ren): Birth to age 26; 26+ if disabled, as long as you apply for and are approved for coverage yourself.
Available Coverage: This Accidental Injury plan provides 24 hour coverage. The benefit amounts shown in this summary will be paid regardless of the actual expenses incurred and are paid on a per day basis unless otherwise specified. Benefits are only payable when all policy terms and conditions are met. Please read all the information in this summary to understand terms, conditions, state variations, exclusions and limitations applicable to these benefits. See your Certificate of Insurance for more information.
Benefit Percentage Amount (unless otherwise indicated)
• Employee: 100% of benefits shown
• Spouse: 100% of benefits shown
• Children: 100% of benefits shown
Accident Insurance Cigna
Example: Small Lacerations (Less than or equal to 6 inches long and requires 2 or more sutures)
Concussion
Coma (lasting 7 days with no response)
Additional Accidental Injury benefits included - See certificate for details, including limitations & exclusions. Virtual Care accepted for Initial Physician Office Visit and Follow-Up Care. Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefit Plan
Examples of benefits include (but are not limited to) payment for death from Automobile accident; total and permanent loss of speech or hearing in both ears. Actual benefit amount paid depends on the type of Covered Loss. The Spouse and Child benefit is 100% and 100% respective of the benefit shown.
Wellness Treatment, Health Screening Test and Preventive Care Benefit:* Benefit paid for all covered persons is 100% of the benefit shown. Also includes COVID-19 Immunization, Tests, and Screenings. Virtual Care accepted.
Portability Feature: You, your spouse, and child(ren) can continue 100% of your coverage at the time your coverage ends. You must be under the age of 100 in order to continue your coverage. Rates may change and all coverage ends at age 100. Only available to United States Citizens, Permanent Resident Aliens and non-United States Citizens working in the United States lawfully (Inpats) while residing in the United States.
Important Definitions and Policy Provisions:
Coverage Type: Benefits are paid when a Covered Injury results, directly and independently of all other causes, from a Covered Accident.
Covered Accident: A sudden, unforeseeable, external event that results, directly and independently of all other causes, in a Covered Injury or Covered Loss and occurs while the Covered Person is insured under this Policy; is not contributed to by disease, sickness, mental or bodily infirmity; and is not otherwise excluded under the terms of this Policy.
Covered Injury: Any bodily harm that results directly and independently of all other causes from a Covered Accident.
Covered Person: An eligible person who is enrolled for coverage under this Policy.
Covered Loss: A loss that is the result, directly and independently of other causes, from a Covered Accident suffered by the Covered Person within the applicable time period described in the Policy.
Hospital: An institution that is licensed as a hospital pursuant to applicable law; primarily and continuously engaged in providing medical care and treatment to sick and injured persons; managed under the supervision of a staff of medical doctors; provides 24-hour nursing services by or under the supervision of a graduate registered Nurse (R.N.); and has medical, diagnostic and treatment facilities with major surgical facilities on its premises, or available to it on a prearranged basis, and charges for its services. The term Hospital does not include a clinic, facility, or unit of a Hospital for: rehabilitation, convalescent, custodial, educational, or nursing care; the aged, treatment of drug or alcohol addiction.
When your coverage begins: Coverage begins on the later of the program’s effective date, the date you become eligible, or the first of the month following the date your completed enrollment form is received unless otherwise agreed upon by Cigna. Your coverage will not begin unless you are actively at work on the effective date. Coverage for all Covered Persons will not begin on the effective date if hospital, facility or home confined, disabled or receiving disability benefits or unable to perform activities of daily living.
When your coverage ends: Coverage ends on the earliest of the date you and your dependents are no longer eligible, the date the group policy is no longer in force, or the date for the last period for which required premiums are paid. For your dependent, coverage also ends when your coverage ends, when their premiums are not paid or when they are no longer eligible. (Under certain circumstances, your coverage may be continued. Be sure to read the provisions in your Certificate.)
30 Day Right To Examine Certificate: If a Covered Person is not satisfied with the Certificate for any reason, it may be returned to us within 30 days after receipt. We will return any premium that has been paid and the Certificate will be void as if it had never been issued.
Costs are
Benefit Conditions and Limitations: This document provides only the highlights. All claims for a covered loss must meet specific Benefit Conditions and Limitations and are otherwise subject to all other terms set forth in the group policy.
Stay prepared with MASA® AccessSM
Comprehensive coverage and care for emergency transport.
Our Emergent Plus membership plan includes:
Emergency Ground Ambulance Coverage1
Your out-of-pocket expenses for your emergency ground transportation to a medical facility are covered with MASA.
Emergency Air Ambulance Coverage1
Your out-of-pocket expenses for your emergency air transportation to a medical facility are covered with MASA.
Hospital to Hospital Ambulance Coverage1
When specialized care is required but not available at the initial emergency facility, your out-of-pocket expenses for the ground or air ambulance transfer to the nearest appropriate medical facility are covered with MASA.
Repatriation Near Home Coverage1
Should you need continued care and your care provider has approved moving you to a hospital nearer to your home, MASA coordinates and covers the expense for ambulance transportation to the approved medical facility.
Did you know?
51.3 million emergency responses occur each year
MASA protects families against uncovered costs for emergency transportation and provides connections with care services.
Source: NEMSIS, National EMS Data Report, 2023
About MASA
MASA is coverage and care you can count on to protect you from the unexpected. With us, there is no “out-of-network” ambulance. Just send us the bill when it arrives and we’ll work to ensure charges are covered. Plus, we’ll be there for you beyond your initial ride, with expert coordination services on call to manage complex transport needs during or after your emergency — such as transferring you and your loved ones home safely.
Protect yourself, your family, and your family’s financial future with MASA.
Stay prepared with MASA®
protects families against out-of-pocket costs for emergency transportation and provides connections with care. Gain peace of mind and shield your finances knowing there’s a MASA plan best suited for your needs.
Identity Theft ID Watchdog
ABOUT IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION
Identity theft protection monitors and alerts you to identity threats. Resolution services are included should your identity ever be compromised while you are covered.
For full plan details, please visit your benefit website: www.txescbenefits.com
Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country. Millions of people have their identity stolen each year. Protect yourself and restore your identity with coverage from ID Watchdog. Benefits include:
• Identity consultation and advice
• Licensed private investigators
• Identity and credit monitoring
• Social media monitoring
• Identity restoration
• Threat and credit alerts
• 24/7 emergency ID protection access
• Mobile app
2024 - 2025 Plan Year
Enrollment Guide General Disclaimer: This summary of benefits for employees is meant only as a brief description of some of the programs for which employees may be eligible. This summary does not include specific plan details. You must refer to the specific plan documentation for specific plan details such as coverage expenses, limitations, exclusions, and other plan terms, which can be found at the MRIC Benefits Website. This summary does not replace or amend the underlying plan documentation. In the event of a discrepancy between this summary and the plan documentation the plan documentation governs. All plans and benefits described in this summary may be discontinued, increased, decreased, or altered at any time with or without notice.
Rate Sheet General Disclaimer: The rate information provided in this guide is subject to change at any time by your employer and/or the plan provider. The rate information included herein, does not guarantee coverage or change or otherwise interpret the terms of the specific plan documentation, available at the MRIC Benefits Website, which may include additional exclusions and limitations and may require an application for coverage to determine eligibility for the health benefit plan. To the extent the information provided in this summary is inconsistent with the specific plan documentation, the provisions of the specific plan documentation will govern in all cases.