New Hire Benefits Information

Welcome to Kent State University!  We are pleased that you are joining our talented, diverse faculty and staff that number nearly 5,000 at all eight campuses. In your new position, you will be contributing to the university's mission, strategic goals, and helping to put excellence into action.

On this new hire benefit page, you will find valuable information and resources to help you make an informed decision when it comes to benefits for you and your family.

As you review your benefits information, keep in mind that there are deadlines to submit your elections. Use the "Helpful Checklist and Deadline Dates" below so that you can take full advantage of the great benefits Kent State has to offer.

For detailed information about Kent State's benefits packages, use the menu on the left. Additionally, you will be invited to attend a New Hire Orientation Presentation (PDF) that provides important information for our new employees which includes the orientation of your available benefits.

University Benefits can be contacted at 330-672-3107 or benefits@kent.edu.  University Benefits is located in Heer Hall (across from the Ice Arena) Second Floor.

NEW HIRE Checklist and Deadline Dates

You may select any form below to print or view.  

Dependents and Supporting Documentation

If you have dependents to be added to your elections, you must submit a Dependent Verification Form (PDF) along with supporting documentation.  If adding a spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate is needed and if adding a child, a copy of the birth certificate(s) is needed.  If you are adding a domestic partner, you must complete the application for Domestic Partner.

SPECIAL NOTE:  If you enrolled in your benefits online, you do not need to complete the forms marked with an asterisk (**).

Medical - Prescription - Dental - Vision - COBRA Forms

Required?

Due Date

**Group Insurance Enrollment Form (PDF)

Yes 31 days

Opt-Out Affidavit (PDF) (if applicable)

Optional 31 days

Domestic Partner Affidavit (PDF) and supplemental documentation (if applicable)

Optional 31 days

COBRA Acknowledgement Form (PDF)

Yes 31 days

Flexible Spending Account for Health Care and Dependent Care

Required?

Due Date

**Flexible Spending Account Form (PDF) *CONTACT THE BENEFITS OFFICE AT BENEFITS@KENT.EDU FOR FORM.

Optional 31 days

Life Insurance

Required?

Due Date

Life Insurance Beneficiary Form (PDF)

Yes 31 days

Accidental Death & Dismemberment Enrollment 

Optional 31 days

Voluntary Group Long-Term Disability Enrollment

Optional 31 days

Retirement

Required

Due Date

Retirement Plan Election Form (OPERS/STRS and Alternative Retirement Plan) (PDF)  

Yes 120 days

Supplemental Retirement Plans (403b and 457b)

Optional Anytime