Leave of Absence
When do I need to add my child to my insurance plan?
You must add the child within 30 days of the birth or adoption.
Is documentation required to add my child to the insurance plan?
Yes. Documentation is required for adding dependents. Refer to the Office of Labor Relations and click on the health benefits tab.
If I have dental, optical, or prescription benefits that are provided through my union and/or welfare fund, am I required to add my child to the welfare fund if I only need medical coverage for my child?
No. However, if you want your child to have those benefits, it is your responsibility to contact your respective union within 30 days of the birth or adoption of the child.
I missed the deadline to add my child to the insurance coverage. How can you help me?
You must wait until the Open Enrollment Period.
I need my insurance. What are my options?
If you have been on approved leave without pay or have been removed from active pay status or any other reason, your health coverage is interrupted. It is your responsibility to contact the Benefits Office and request a COBRA package.
What happens to my retirement plan, supplemental retirement annuity, and NYS Deferred Annuity while out on leave without pay?
You cannot continue to contribute to your retirement accounts during an unpaid leave. Your existing retirement funds and retirement annuity funds will remain the same way you have invested.
Flexible Spending Accounts
If you are enrolled in a flexible spending account program, your payroll contributions will cease until you return to work. Upon your return to work, you must contact the FSA program to resume participation in the plan.
Transit Benefit Program (Wage Works)
If you are out on an approved leave without pay or have been removed from active pay status or any other reason, transit benefit deductions may be interrupted. It is your responsibility to contact Wage Works when you are on leave without pay.
Returning From Unpaid Leave
You must complete a Health Benefits Application to reinstate your health insurance. You must contact your respective union and/or welfare fund to reinstate your welfare benefits.
