Life Events

Life Status Changes

Since many of the university’s benefits are governed by IRS code, there are rules that govern when employees may change a benefit election throughout the year. Generally, employees must have a life status change or life event (i.e., marriage, divorce, birth of a child), in order to make a change during the calendar year. An employee must notify the Benefits staff within 31 days of the life event; otherwise, they may have to wait until the next open enrollment to make a benefit change selection.

Please see the list of qualifying Life Events on the menu to the left. Click on one to view more information.

For questions, please contact the Benefits Office at 330-672-3107 or benefits@kent.edu.

 

Opting Out of Group Medical Coverage

Opting out of medical coverage is an option for our employees.  Employees who opt-out of these benefits are eligible for the opt-out incentive, which is $100 per month for each full month you are not enrolled in the group plans.  The $100 is added to your paycheck.  This option is for employees who have other group coverage available and who completes an Opt-Out Affidavit and provides proof of other coverage.  The Opt-out incentive applies to medical, prescription drug and vision benefits only. 

There are two opportunities in which you can enroll in the opt-out program:  1) a change in Life Events or 2) during the annual open enrollment.

Click Opt-Out Affidavit to access this form.