UpDate - Vol. 15, No. 30, Page FB-3
May 2, 1996
Coverage Expanded for Dependents

Effective July 1, 1996, two University benefits, the Dental Assistance
Plan and the Dependent Life Insurance program, were improved for
dependent children. These benefits will provide coverage until the end
of the calendar year in which a dependent child attains age 21, Or, if
he or she is a full-time student, to the end of the month in which
he/she reaches age 24. This enhancement is consistent with coverage
currently offered under many of the University's health care plans.

To be eligible for this enhancement:
   * A dependent child must be younger than age 21 at the end  of the
     calendar year in which his/her birthday occurs (or 24 if a full-
     time student)
   * The child must be financially dependent on you
   * You must have "family" dental coverage or a dependent life
     insurance option, whichever is appropriate.

If your dependent was canceled because of age, he or she may now
qualify under the expanded guidelines. Do make certain that you have
the "family" dental option if you wish to cover your dependent
children under the University dental plan. Perhaps you switched to the
"employee only" dental option (or perhaps you dropped your dependent
life insurance) when your child aged out of the program. If so, you
should upgrade your coverage during the flex enrollment period. Simply
call FLEX BY PHONE at 831-3331. Contact the University Benefits Office
at 831-2913 if you need clarification.

A chart detailing dependent age limits is printed below.

-------

Dependent Children Age Limits

Benefit Program                Non-Student Status      Student Status
--------------------------     --------------------    --------------------
Health Care:                   End of calendar year    End of calendar year
Basic Plan*                    of 21st birthday        of 21st birthday

Health Care:                   End of calendar year    End of month
Comprehensive, Staff Model     of 21st birthday        of 24th birthday**
HMO, Independent Practice
Association# and Principal

Dental Assistance Program      End of calendar year    End of month
                               of 21st birthday        of 24th birthday**

Dependent Life Insurance       End of calendar year    End of month
                               of 21st birthday        of 24th birthday**


*    age limit set by state law.
**   or when no longer a full-time student (whichever occurs first)
#    formerly Total Health Plus