OPEN ENROLLMENT vs. ANNUAL ENROLLMENT


With the upcoming enrollment fast approaching, we have been questioned about the difference between “open enrollment” and the “annual enrollment” period. We would like to clarify this, so there is no misunderstanding about what you are signing up for and if you choose to sign up, you understand what benefits you are entitled to.

“Open enrollment” is when a plan is, for the very first time, available to you. Open enrollment is only when a plan first became available and for newly hired employees. New hires must sign up for the plans they want within the first 90-days of being hired. If a new hire does not enroll within 90-days, he/she must wait for a “annual enrollment”. Open enrollments do not have the same waiting periods or other provisions as the annual enrollment periods.

The “annual enrollment” period is available to all members in good standing. This year the “annual enrollment” is from August 15 to September 30, 2004. All enrollment cards received before September 15 will have coverage start on October 1, and cards received from September 15 through September 30, will have coverage start on November 1, 2004. Any enrollment cards received after September 30 will not receive any benefits and you will have to wait for the next annual enrollment.

Below is a table showing the difference between “open enrollment” and “annual enrollment” for each plan the Union Workers’ Benefits Trust offers.

OPEN ENROLLMENT

ANNUAL ENROLLMENT

August 15 thru September 30, 2004



DENTAL

  • 12-month waiting period for Coverage C

  • No other waiting periods

  • 12-month waiting period for Coverage B

  • 18-month waiting period for Coverage C

  • 24 month waiting period for Coverage D

ACCIDENT and SICKNESS

  • No Evidence of Insurabilty required. (statement of good health)

  • Evidence of Insurabilty required. (statement of good health)

LONG TERM DISABILITY

  • Evidence of Insurabilty required. (statement of good health)

  • Evidence of Insurabilty required. (statement of good health)


The Dental Plan is a pre-tax deduction, which is governed by Federal law. During the “annual enrollment” period is the only time you can make changes to your plan unless you have a “qualifying event.” This is the time to add dependants, change from single to family or family to single, or drop out of the plan.

Should you have any questions concerning any of the plans or the type of enrollment you are eligible for, please contact the Local S6 Benefits Committee at extension 2063.

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