Benefits FAQs
Benefit information is subject to change based on the collective bargaining process. This information reflects the most frequently asked questions and does not serve as an overview of the CSU Benefits Program. If there is a discrepancy between this information and the collective bargaining agreements, the official agreements will always govern.
1. When can I enroll?
You can enroll within 60 days after your eligible appointment, as well as during our annual open enrollment or if you had other health coverage and would be losing it.
2. When does my insurance coverage begin?
Generally coverage begins the first of the following month after all required forms have been submitted. The effective date of when your coverage can begin is based on the date you sign your enrollment forms.
3. Which family members can I enroll?
Your spouse, domestic partner, and your dependent children under the age of 26, are all eligible for enrollment. Eligible dependent children do not have to maintain student status. If at any point there is a change in a dependents status (i.e. divorce, termination of domestic partnership, you must notify the benefits office immediately as these dependents are no longer eligible).
4. What certification is required to enroll my dependents?
You must provide birthdates and social security numbers for all enrollees. A copy of your marriage certificate is required to add a spouse and birth certificates are required for dependent children. To enroll a domestic partner you must register the domestic partnership with the Secretary of State and provide a Declaration of Domestic Partnership and a CSU Notice of Financial Liability.
5. How much will benefits cost?
The monthly deduction amount you pay is based on the health plan you select and the number of dependents you include on your enrollment. Please refer to the Health Benefits Comparison Chart (PDF) online or pick up a copy outside Kendall Hall 220.
6. When will I receive my medical cards?
You should receive your medical cards approximately 10 business days after your benefits are recorded by the carrier. All required documentation, signatures, and forms must be completed with the campus Benefits Office prior to receiving your cards.
7. Will I receive dental cards?
No. Billing is done through your dentist's office and your corresponding dental plan using social security numbers. The Delta Dental PPO Plan group number is 4018. The HMO DeltaCare USA group number is 02034. For more information please refer to the Dental Plan Comparison Chart. To find a Delta dentist contact Delta Dental at (888) 335-8227 or visit www.deltadentalins.com/csu. For a list of current DeltaCare dentists call (800) 422-4234 or visit www.deltadentalins.com/csu.
8. Will I receive vision cards?
No. Vision Service Plan (VSP) is the administrator and insurance carrier. A claim form is not required for your appointment. To find and select a network provider visit www.vsp.com or call (800) 877-7195. Services provided by a non-VSP provider must be paid in full by the employee. For reimbursement coverage questions please contact VSP or complete a VSP Out-of-Network Reimbursement form.
9. How do I get a prescription before I receive my cards?
If you or any of your covered dependents need a prescription before you receive your identification card, you will need to pay for the prescription in full at a participating pharmacy, save your receipt, and then file a claim for reimbursement with your insurance carrier once you receive your I.D. card.
10. Where can I find more information on the individual plans?
Please visit our website at www.csuchico.edu/hr click on the Benefits tab for more detailed information. All new employees should schedule an appointment with the Benefits Analyst to review all the health plan options as well as additional benefits available to CSU, Chico employees. To schedule an appointment please contact the Benefits' at (530) 898-5436.
11. Can I opt-out of insurance if I am covered by another health/dental insurance program?
Yes. If you waive the CSU medical and/or dental coverage because you have other non-CSU coverage, you can receive additional cash in your paycheck each month. You will be taxed on this additional income. You must be covered by a non-CSU alternative insurance. For more information please visit our website at www.csuchico.edu/hr/benefits/index.shtml or pick up a Flex Cash plan information pamphlet outside of Kendall Hall 220.
12. Can I switch health plans?
Employees are able to switch health and dental plans during our annual open enrollment period (normally mid-September). Employees will be notified through campus announcements when open enrollment begins and ends. All changes made during open enrollment will go into effect January 1st of the following year.
13. I recently had a baby how do I add him/her to my insurance?
Please come in within 60 days from the date of birth to add a child to your insurance coverage. You must complete a benefits worksheet and schedule an appointment with the Benefits Analyst. Coverage will begin the next month. Birth certificates and social security numbers will be requested.
14. I recently got married how do I add my spouse to my insurance?
You have 60 days from the date of marriage to add your spouse to your insurance coverage. You must complete a benefits worksheet, submit a marriage certificate, and schedule an appointment with a campus Benefits Analyst. Coverage will begin the next month.
15. I am resigning how long will my coverage be in effect?
Health, Dental, and Vision coverage premiums are paid one month in advance. For example, if you separated October 5, you would have coverage through November.
16. Can benefits continue if I or a dependent become ineligible for coverage?
Yes. Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation (COBRA) provides you with the option of continuing your medical, dental and/or vision plans for a certain number of months depending on the event. This coverage will cost you approximately 102% of the group premium and you will be responsible for paying the entire premium amount to the insurance carriers. When University sponsored insurance coverage is going to end due to a change in employment status / eligibility, COBRA information is sent in the mail.