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In This Issue:
Open enrollment is the only time of year when employees can make changes to their benefits, unless they have a qualified change of status event. This year’s open enrollment period is Monday, Nov. 3, through Sunday, Nov. 23. Changes will take effect in January.
Open enrollment packages were mailed to employees’ homes this week. The package includes your Personal Benefits Summary, newsletter, medical/dental plan comparison chart and other important information. Materials also will be available online beginning Nov. 3 at http://is.partners.org/hr/New_Web/bwh/bwh_benefits.htm
Beginning Nov. 3, you can enroll for 2009 benefits any time online. Access eBenefits at https://ibridge.partners.org from home or work. Public terminals with access to eBenefits will be available at BWH.
Changes to benefits this year:
New Over-Age Dependent Verification Procedure. If you have a dependent child ages 19 – 26 who is a full-time student and you are continuing coverage or adding him or her to your medical, dental or vision coverage, you must verify his or her student status via eBenefits to ensure coverage.
2009 Tax-Sheltered Annuity Contribution Limits Announced. Starting Jan. 1, you can contribute up to $16,500 to your TSA if you are under age 50, or up to $22,000 if you are 50 or older.
Flexible Spending Accounts. If you have a 2008 Health Care or Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account and want to have one again in 2009, you must enroll via eBenefits by Nov. 23.
New Blue Cross Blue Shield ID Cards. Employees enrolled in a Blue Cross Blue Shield medical plan will receive a new ID card in early 2009.
For more information, weekly paid employees should contact the Benefits Office at ibenefits@partners.org or 617-726-8133. You also contact your HR generalist. BWPO professional staff should call 617-582-1117 or e-mail BWPOprofstaff@partners.org; and BWH professional staff should e-mail BWHprofstaff@partners.org or call 617-724-9357.