Benefits

Dependent Eligibility Verification Coming in July 2010

The University of Kentucky will conduct a Dependent Eligibility Verification Program in July-August 2010 to confirm that every family member (spouse, children, step-children, etc.) enrolled in a University of Kentucky benefit plan qualifies for coverage.

During the audit period (July - August 2010), all staff and faculty who have dependents listed on UK benefit plans will be asked to submit "proof of relationship" documentation (such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, and so on). Employees may take advantage of the Open Enrollment period (April 26 - May 14, 2010) to remove any ineligible dependents from their plans - see details below. Otherwise, no action is required before the verification period begins on
July 1, 2010. Click here for Dependent Eligibility Cover Form.

Why conduct a dependent eligibility verfication program?

The University joins a growing number of organizations conducting reviews of dependent eligibility. These programs are designed to ensure only eligible individuals receive benefits coverage. We approach the upcoming audit with the following in mind:

  • The University of Kentucky is committed to providing the best benefits at the most reasonable cost possible.
  • The University must administer benefit plans fairly. This includes covering only those dependents who are eligible for the plans.

Similar programs at other institutions have found anywhere from 4-8% of covered family members on plans were in fact ineligible. Taking steps to ensure plan participants’ eligibility helps save both plan members and the University money, which in turn will reduce premium increases in the future.

What You Need to Know - Eligible vs. Ineligible Plan Members

In many cases, plan members may become ineligible for coverage because of a change in circumstances. Examples include an ex-spouse not dropped from the plan after divorce, a grandchild covered without appropriate court documentation (of guardianship, for example), and a child no longer under age 26 or who has married. The chart below offers an overview and sample scenarios (continue below for details on how to remove ineligible dependents from plans during Open Enrollment):

Eligible Dependents
Include: 		Examples of Ineligible Plan Members Include: If any of these apply to you:

  • your spouse
  • your children up to age 26
  • your mentally or physically disabled children of any age who were or became disabled and who were already covered by your plan
  • your sponsored dependent
  • children of your adult sponsored dependent up to age 26 and who reside in the employee's household

  • an ex-spouse not dropped from the plan after divorce
  • a grandchild covered without appropriate court documentation (of guardianship, for example)
  • a child who reaches the age of 26

Take this opportunity to drop ineligible dependents from your benefit plan

OR

plan to provide documentation during the July 2010 dependent eligibility audit. Documentation of dependent eligibility will be required of all UK benefit plan participants.

During open enrollment from April 26 through May 14, employees may take advantage of an “amnesty period” to drop ineligible dependents from benefit plan coverage without question or possible penalties. To remove an ineligible dependent, employees may log in to myUK Employee Self-Service or use a paper enrollment form. During July, employees will be required to provide proof for all dependents enrolled in one or more University benefit plans. Please review the eligibility table above – and take action during Open Enrollment if you need to remove ineligible individuals from your benefit plans.