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Benefits and Resources

Health Insurance Information for SUNY Potsdam Employees

Retirement Information for SUNY Potsdam Employees

Other Benefit Information for SUNY Potsdam Employees

Benefits Forms

Resources for SUNY Potsdam Employees

General Pre-Retirement Planning Resources

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Resources

Financial Pre-Retirement Planning Resources

Benefits Updates

Flexible Spending Account – New Debit Card will be issued
  • A new debit card will be issued for the health care expense accounts
  • Participants will experience a 5–7-day gap where old cards are inactive and new cards are in transit. New cards will be issued June 23, 2025
  • Update automatic payment methods
  • Direct any questions to TASC Customer Service at 800-358-7202 for support
  • You may also visit the following webpage: https://www.tasconline.com/newcard/
Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Summer 2025 Webinars
  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program
  • Please use this link to register
NYSTRS Announces Summer 2025 Pension Retirement Education Program (PREP) Seminar Schedule
SUNY ORP,  SUNY Voluntary 403(b) Savings Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Review this short video for more information for the supplemental savings plans, SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan
  • Employees can contribute to BOTH supplemental savings plans
  • For more information on the program, click here
  • The Voluntary Savings Plan Enrollment Guide is available here
TIAA Representative will be available for in-person meetings on the dates listed below
  • Meet with the SUNY Potsdam TIAA Representative, Darryl Fiasconaro
  • Call 800-732-8353 or login at tiaa.org/schedulenow to schedule an appointment
    • Monday, July 21, 2025 - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room
    • Save the Date: the representative will be available for in-person appointments on campus September 8, 2025, and November 3, 2025
TIAA Financial Essentials
  • TIAA will be holding webinars in July:
    • Quarterly economic and market update
      • The state of the U.S. economy and key market drivers
      • Factors influencing market volatility
      • Investing in public markets
      • Wednesday, July 9 | Noon – 1 p.m. ET | Register here
    • Steps to help secure your income in retirement: A mid-career check-in
      • Know where you stand
      • Set financial priorities
      • Optimize your savings and investments
      • Make a plan for lifetime income
      • Wednesday, July 23 | Noon – 1 p.m. ET | Register Here
Professional Development Available
  • Training and professional development programs, tuition benefits, and State Learning Management System (SLMS) for State Employees
    • Access the NYS Training and Development website, here
  • BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees. To access BizLibrary, use this link.
Save The Date
  • The annual Employee Recognition Day is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Marshall Park Band Shell.  Rain date is Thursday, May 22, 2025.  Let’s celebrate together!  You won’t want to miss the afternoon jam packed with recognition awards, activities, and music!  Join in the fun! 
Time & Attendance – Waiver of Holiday Compensation (Deadline 5/15/25)
  • The collective bargaining agreements between the State and CSEA, Council 82, NYCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF, M/C (Grades 22 & Below) & UUP allow employee waiver of holiday compensation. 
     
  • Between April 2, 2025, through May 15, 2025, you may complete the  2025 Waiver of Holiday Compensation Election Form to make the change.  If you elect to waive holiday compensation and choose to receive instead compensatory time off for holidays worked. The waiver will be in effect until April 1, 2026. 
     
  • Employees may also revoke any waiver of holiday compensation now in effect by filing the 2025 Waiver of Holiday Compensation Election Form with the Human Resources Office by May 15, 2025, close of business.
Mobile Dentistry Clinic available on campus June 4th & June 5th for non CSEA & UUP members due to their BTF affiliation for dental benefits 
  • Jet Dental Clinics will be available at SUNY Potsdam on June 4 & 5 in Raymond Hall’s 8th Floor
     
  • New York State Dental Plan enrollees and covered dependents can receive preventative dental care, including cleanings, exams and X-rays. You must have an appointment to attend. Any services rendered by Jet Dental are subject to your New York State Dental Plan benefits.  If you have questions on what is covered, please contact Anthem Blue Cross, the dental plan administrator, at 1-833-821-1949.  Jet Dental will bill Anthem directly for covered services.
     
  • For more information and to sign up, click here.  You may also call Jet Dental at 801-430-9262 or email hello@jetdental.com with any questions.
Empire Plan Certificate & Amendments are now available
SUNY ORP,  SUNY Voluntary 403(b) Savings Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Review this short video for more information for the supplemental savings plans.
  • SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan
  • New catch-up contribution limit for ages 60-63.  Maximum contributions $34,750.
  • Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) AND NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b).  Contributions do not offset between 403(b) and 457(b) plans; therefore, maximum annual contributions limits apply to each plan separately.
  • For more information on the program, click here.
  • The Voluntary Savings Plan Enrollment Guide is available here.
  • Review the guide to make changes to your contributions using this link.
TIAA Representative will be available for in-person meetings
  • Meet with the SUNY Potsdam TIAA Representative, Darryl Fiasconaro
  • Call 800-732-8353 or login at tiaa.org/schedulenow to schedule an appointment.
    • Thursday, June 12, 2025 - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor  Conference Room
    • Monday, July 21, 2025 - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room
    • Save the Date: the representative will be available for in-person appointments on campus September 8, 2025 and November 3, 2025
TIAA Financial Essentials
  • TIAA will be holding a series of webinars in May, June and July.  The topics will include:
    • Tariffs and other drivers behind today’s market volatility and what to watch next
    • Strategies to help diversify and protect your portfolio
    • Key considerations for revisiting financial plans in uncertain times
    • Tools and resources to stay informed and take action with confidence
  • Financial Wellness & Mental Health: Insights from the TIAA Institute
    • In this webinar, TIAA will examine the relationship between mental health and financial well-being.
    • Thursday, May 15 | 3 p.m. ET | Register here
Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Spring 2025 Webinars
  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years.  Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday.
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program.
  • Please use this link to register.
Medicare 101

Medicare 101, presented by St. Lawrence County Office for the Aging.  Get your questions answered.  The following meetings will be held at the Human Services Building located at 80 State Highway 310 in Canton, 2nd Floor Conference Room. Call the Office for the Aging with any questions, (315) 386-4730

  • Monday, May 12, 2025, 10 -11 a.m
  • Monday, June 2, 2025, 2 - 3 p.m.
Professional Development Available
  • Training and professional development programs, tuition benefits, and State Learning Management System (SLMS) for State Employees
    • Access the NYS Training and Development website, here.

BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees. To access BizLibrary, use this link.

Save The Date
  • The annual Employee Recognition Day is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Marshall Park Band Shell.  Rain date is Thursday, May 22, 2025.  Let’s celebrate together!  You won’t want to miss the afternoon jam packed with recognition awards, activities, and music!  Join in the fun!  
Time & Attendance – Waiver of Holiday Compensation (Deadline 5/15/25)
  • The collective bargaining agreements between the State and CSEA, Council 82, NYCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF, M/C (Grades 22 & Below) & UUP allow employee waiver of holiday compensation. 
     
  • Between April 2, 2025, through May 15, 2025, you may complete the 2025 Waiver of Holiday Compensation Election Form to make the change. If you elect to waive holiday compensation and choose to receive instead compensatory time off for holidays worked. The waiver will be in effect until April 1, 2026. 
     
  • Employees may also revoke any waiver of holiday compensation now in effect by filing the 2025 Waiver of Holiday Compensation Election Form with the Human Resources Office by May 15, 2025, close of business.
SUNY ORP,  SUNY Voluntary 403(b) Savings Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation Plan

  • For campus employees feeling anxiety about the stock market and your retirement savings, now would be an excellent time to pick up the phone to speak with one of our approved SUNY-focused Financial Counselors and Advisers.

    Many Americans are anxious right now due to the rollout of new U.S. tariffs this past week. With heightened market volatility, investors are worried about their retirement accounts (i.e., SUNY ORP and/or 403b/457b) and some are trying to time the market or pulling their investments.

    While SUNY HR Benefit’s office are not able to offer investment guidance, we want to encourage thoughtful movement of funds, not rash decision making in volatile times.

    Remember, everyone who is a SUNY employee can call one of our advisers from TIAA, Voya, Fidelity, or Corebridge. They can offer a variety of services that include general counseling conversations to deep dive reviews of specific accounts.

    The SUNY ORP and Voluntary 403(b) Savings Plan currently offers employees a choice of four different Investment Providers-Corebridge, TIAA, Voya & Fidelity. 

    These various providers have different representatives throughout the SUNY campuses and are listed per the following SUNY System Administration HR Benefits link: https: //www.suny.edu/benefits/vsp/403bproviders/

  • The NYSDCP-457b is an additional voluntary saving plan that NYS/SUNY offers to NYS employees:
Are you enrolled in the supplemental retirement savings plans?
  • SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan
  • New catch-up contribution limit for ages 60-63.  Maximum contributions $34,750.
  • Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) AND NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b).  Contributions do not offset between 403(b) and 457(b) plans; therefore, maximum annual contributions limits apply to each plan separately.
  • For more information on the program, click here.
  • The Voluntary Savings Plan Enrollment Guide is available here.
  • Review the guide to make changes to your contributions using this link. 
TIAA Financial Essentials
Corebridge Financial Representative Campus Visit

Schedule your meeting to meet with Alysia Miller from Corebridge Financial.

  • Friday, April 25, 2025
    10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
    Raymond Hall 219, HR Suite
NYSLRS – New York Retirement News
NYSTRS – Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) announced for spring

Use this link to review the dates and locations.

Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Spring 2025 Webinars
  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years.  Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday.
     
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program.
     
  • Please use this link to register.
Professional Development Available
  • Training and professional development programs, tuition benefits, and State Learning Management System (SLMS) for State Employees
    • Access the NYS Training and Development website, here.
  • BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees. To access BizLibrary, use this link.
Save The Date
  • The annual Employee Recognition Day is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Marshall Park Band Shell.  Rain date is Thursday, May 22, 2025.  Let’s celebrate together!  You won’t want to miss the afternoon jam packed with recognition awards, activities, and music!  Join in the fun! 
View and Update Your Beneficiaries

This is a reminder that you should periodically review your retirement plan beneficiary designations & contact information. Update them if needed.

Annual Statement for NYSLRS (ERS & PFRS)
  • The Member Annual Statement is a snapshot of the member’s NYSLRS Account as of March 31. The statements are mailed from May through July.  Statements are also available online by signing into to Retirement Online
  • Please make sure your contact information is up to date
    • Use this link for further information 
ERS Virtual Consultations
  • These sessions are geared towards employees who are within 5 years of retirement.
  • Individual virtual consultations will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Each session is 30 minutes. If you are interested, please contact Nicole Bacon-Ward at baconwns@potsdam.edu or (315) 267-2090 to reserve your appointment.
NYSTRS – Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) announced for spring
  • Use this link to review the dates and locations.
Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Spring 2025 Webinars
  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years.  Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday.
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program.
  • Please use this link to register.
TIAA Representative will be available for in-person meetings on the dates listed below
  • Meet the new SUNY Potsdam TIAA Representative, Darryl Fiasconaro
  • Call 800-732-8353 or login at www.tiaa.org/schedulenow to schedule an appointment.
    • Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room
    • Friday, April 4, 2025 - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 8th Floor Lounge
Corebridge Financial Representative will be available for in-person meetings
  • Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.
  • Friday, April 4, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Please use this link to schedule an appointment.
Are you enrolled in the supplemental retirement savings plans?
  • SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan
  • New catch-up contribution limit for ages 60-63.  Maximum contributions $34,750.
  • Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) AND NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b).  Contributions do not offset between 403(b) and 457(b) plans; therefore, maximum annual contributions limits apply to each plan separately.
  • For more information on the program, click here.
  • The Voluntary Savings Plan Enrollment Guide is available here.
  • Review the guide to make changes to your contributions using this link.
Professional Development Available
  • Training and professional development programs, tuition benefits, and State Learning Management System (SLMS) for State Employees
    • Access the NYS Training and Development website, here.
  • BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees. To access BizLibrary, use this link.
NYS Flexible Spending Program 2024 – Deadline Approaching
  • The final day to request payment or submit eligible receipts for Plan Year 2024 is March 31, 2025.  For information on how to review your account, please use this link.
NYSTRS – Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) announced for spring
  • Use this link to review the dates and locations.
Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Spring 2025 Webinars
  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years.  Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday.
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program.
  • Please use this link to register.
VOYA Representative will be available for in-person meetings
  • Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.
  • Tuesday, February 25, 2025 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Please call Stephen Donella Jr. at (315) 682-3532 or email at Stephen.donellajr@voyafa.com to schedule an appointment.
TIAA Representative will be available for in-person meetings (see dates below)
  • Meet the new SUNY Potsdam TIAA Representative, Darryl Fiasconaro
  • Call 800-732-8353 or login at www.tiaa.org/schedulenow to schedule an appointment.
    • Thursday, April 3, 2025 - 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room
    • Friday, April 4, 2025 - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Raymond Hall’s 8th Floor Lounge
Corebridge Financial Representative will be available for in-person meetings
  • Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.
  • Friday, April 4, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Please use this link to schedule an appointment.
Are you enrolled in the supplemental retirement savings plans?
  • SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan
  • New catch-up contribution limit for ages 60-63.  Maximum contributions $34,750.
  • Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) AND NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b).  Contributions do not offset between 403(b) and 457(b) plans; therefore, maximum annual contributions limits apply to each plan separately.
  • For more information on the program, click here.
  • The Voluntary Savings Plan Enrollment Guide is available here.
  • Review the guide to make changes to your contributions using this link.
NYS Pension Fund (NYSLRS)
  • Ended 2024 strong and continues to be one of the best-funded public pension plans in the country.
  • This link outlines the latest financial reporting on assets of this fund that guarantees members pension benefits.
Professional Development Available
  • Training and professional development programs, tuition benefits, and State Learning Management System (SLMS) for State Employees
    • Access the NYS Training and Development website, here.
  • BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees. To access BizLibrary, use this link.
Annual Postings
Great News for Retirement Savers!

SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b) Plan Contribution Limits for 2025:

  • Annual Contribution limit of $ 23,500 for employees under age 50
  • Catch-up Contribution limit for ages 50-59, additional $7,500 or $31,000 maximum
  • NEW January 2025 Additional Catch-up Contribution limit for ages 60-63, $3,750 or $34,750 maximum
  • NOTE: Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings 403(b) AND NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b).  Contributions do not offset between 403(b) and 457(b) plans; therefore, maximum annual contributions limits apply to each plan separately.  When contributing to both plans, this allows for the maximum contribution limits of:
    • Under age 50, $47,000
    • Age 50-59, $62,000
    • Age 60-63, $69,500
    • Age 64 and over, $62,000
  • For more information on the program, click here.
  • The VSP Enrollment Guide is available here.
  • Review the guide to make changes to your contributions using this link.

NYSTRS – Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP) announced for spring

  • Use this link to review the dates and locations.

Directions: Pre-Retirement Planning announces Spring 2025 Webinars

  • The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years.  Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during their normal workday.
  • Topics covered: NYS Deferred Compensation Plan, New York State and Local Retirement System Pension with the Employees Retirement System (ERS), Social Security and the NYS Health Insurance Program.
  • Please use this link to register.

TIAA Representative will be available for in-person meetings on the dates listed below:

  • Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.  Call 800-732-8353 or login at www.tiaa.org/schedulenow to schedule an appointment.
    • Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    • Wednesday, April 30, 2025 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

TIAA Education Opportunities – Live Webinar

  • Thursday, January 30, 2025, 3 - 4 p.m. – Take Control of your Financial Life: 5 Steps to Save Money and Manage Debt.  Use this link to register.

Corebridge Financial Representative will be available for in-person meetings on Friday, February 7, 2025

  • Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall's 6th Floor Conference Room.
  • Use this link to schedule a meeting.
NYS/UUP JLMC announce the Empire Knowledgebank (EKB) FREE Online Learning
  • Spotlight on Process Improvement
  • Click here to access the EKB guidelines and application.
Option Transfer Period ends December 31, 2024
  • NYSHIP 2025 Rates
  • Health Insurance Choices 2025 
    This booklet explains the options available to you under the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) for your health insurance and other elections.
    • The maximum out-of-pocket limits for covered, in-network services under The Empire Plan have changed for 2025.  These limits are initially determined during the collective bargaining process and updated annually thereafter based on negotiated agreements. See the chart on page 18 of the choices booklet for more information about how out-of-pocket limits apply to each Empire Plan program.
       
  • Pre-Tax Contribution Program
    You may update your election to pre- or post- tax contributions during the Option Transfer Period by completing the Health Insurance Transaction Form (Sections 1-12 & Section 16).
     
  • Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) 
    The Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) allows eligible full- and part-time employees to exchange previously accrual annual and/or personal leave for a credit to be applied toward the employee share of their NYSHIP premium on a bi-weekly basis. Employees who are Management/Confidential or represented by CSEA, NYSCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF or UUP employees who accrue annual leave time are eligible. 
  • New York State Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    Open Enrollment from November 1, 2024 - December 9, 2024
    • Total Administrative Services Corporation (TASC) is the FSA administrator for NYS.  TASC also provides FSA enrollment through Bentek.
    • The annual maximum contribution for the Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) will increase to $3,300 for 2025.
    • There are three important benefits for employees:  Health Care Spending Account (HCSA), Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAA) and the Adoption Advantage Account.
    • Please visit the FSA website for more information.
Retirement
  • TIAA Representative, Turkessa Amoah is available for in-person appointments during the dates and times listed below.  Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.  You may call 800-732-8353 to schedule an appointment or click here to schedule your appointment.
    • Wednesday, December 18: Available from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
  • Voya Representative, Stephen Donella, Jr. is available for in-person appointments on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m.  Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 8th Floor Lounge. You may call 315-682-3532 or email Stephen.donellajr@voyafa.com to schedule an appointment.
  • SUNY Voluntary Savings Plan & NYS Deferred Compensation Plan changes for 2025
    • New catch-up category: If you are going to be age 60-63 in 2025, you are eligible for an additional catch-up amount of $3,750.
    • Please see the breakdown below:
      • Annual Contribution Limit: $23,500
      • Age 50 or older Catch-Up Contribution Limit: $7,500
      • Age 60-63 Catch-Up Contribution Limit: $3,750
      • Total Contribution Limit for age 60-63: $34,750
    • Employees can contribute to BOTH the SUNY Voluntary Savings Plan 403(b) and NYS Deferred Compensation 457(b). Contributions do not offset between the 403(b) and 457(b) plans, therefore, maximum annual contribution limits apply to each plan separately.
      • For BOTH plans, Under age 50 – maximum contribution limit, $47,000
      • For BOTH plans, Over age 50 - maximum contribution limit, $62,000
      • For BOTH plans, Age 60-63 - maximum contribution limit, $69,500
NYS/UUP JLMC Empire Knowledgebank (EKB)
  • EKB offers FREE online learning.  This month the spotlight is on Process Improvement.  Click here to access the EKB guidelines and application.
Make your SEFA Pledge today!

SEFA (State Employees Federated Appeal) is your opportunity to make a difference in your community by donating to one of the 1700+ charities registered in the SEFA campaign.  No pledge is too big or small, every dollar makes a difference!  Imagine the impact we could make if we all gave just one dollar! Start Something Good!

Pledging is now OPEN! Make your pledge today by clicking HERE! View e-Pledge Instructions here

WellNYS Daily To-Do Email

State employees may sign up to receive a daily email that has a WellNYS Daily To-Do message.  The messages provide creative suggestions, interesting facts, or inspiring quotes that recipients can practice. You may unsubscribe at any time. Sign-Up for WellNYS Daily To-Do

It’s Move Time Emails

State employees are invited to register to receive an email titles, It's Move Time. The emails are intended to encourage you to practice a simple movement during your workday.  Three emails will be sent every week at random times. Sign-Up for It's Move Time Emails

Option Transfer Period
  • The Option Transfer Period for 2025 begins November 1st and ends December 9th.  You may view more information here.
     
  • Health Insurance Choices 2025 - This booklet explains the options available to you under the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) for your health insurance and other elections.

    The maximum out-of-pocket limits for covered, in-network services under The Empire Plan have changed for 2025.  These limits are initially determined during the collective bargaining process and updated annually thereafter based on negotiated agreements. See the chart on page 18 of the choices booklet for more information about how out-of-pocket limits apply to each Empire Plan program.
     
  • Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP)
    The Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) allows eligible full- and part-time employees to exchange previously accrual annual and/or personal leave for a credit to be applied toward the employee share of their NYSHIP premium on a bi-weekly basis. Employees who are Management/Confidential or represented by CSEA, NYSCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF or UUP employees who accrue annual leave time are eligible. 
  • New York State Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    Open Enrollment from November 1, 2024 - December 9, 2024
    • Total Administrative Services Corporation (TASC) is the FSA administrator for NYS.  TASC also provides FSA enrollment through Bentek.
    • The annual maximum contribution for the Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) will increase to $3,300 for 2025.
    • There are three important benefits for employees:  Health Care Spending Account (HCSA), Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAA) and the Adoption Advantage Account.
    • Please visit the FSA website for more information.
Retirement

TIAA Representative, Turkessa Amoah is available for in-person appointments during the dates and times listed below.  Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.  You may call 800-732-8353 to schedule an appointment or click here to schedule your appointment.

  • Wednesday, November 20: Available from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m.
  • Wednesday, December 18: Available from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
Make your SEFA Pledge today!

SEFA (State Employees Federated Appeal) is your opportunity to make a difference in your community by donating to one of the 1700+ charities registered in the SEFA campaign.  No pledge is too big or small, every dollar makes a difference!  Imagine the impact we could make if we all gave just one dollar!  Start Something Good!

Pledging is now OPEN! Make your pledge today by clicking HERE!

View e-Pledge Instructions here

WellNYS Daily To-Do Email

State employees may sign up to receive a daily email that has a WellNYS Daily To-Do message.  The messages provide creative suggestions, interesting facts, or inspiring quotes that recipients can practice.  You may unsubscribe at any time. Sign-Up for WellNYS Daily To-Do

It's Move Time Emails

State employees are invited to register to receive an email titles, It's Move Time.  The emails are intended to encourage you to practice a simple movement during your workday.  Three emails will be sent every week at random times. Sign-Up for It's Move Time Emails

Option Transfer Period
  • The 2025 option transfer information, deadlines and health insurance premium rates will be arriving soon to your home address.  This information will also be posted on the NYSHIP website -  Planning for Option Transfer 2025
     
  • Health Insurance Choices for 2025 explains the Option Transfer Period and the benefit plans and programs available under NYSHIP for the upcoming year, including the Opt-out Program and the Pre-Tax Contribution Program.
     
  • Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP): November 1, 2024 - December 9, 2024 - PEP allows eligible full- and part-time employees to exchange previously accrued annual and/or personal leave for a credit to be applied toward the employee share of their NYSHIP premium on a bi-weekly basis.  Employees who are Management/Confidential or represented by CSEA, NYSCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF or UUP* are currently eligible to participate in PEP. *UUP employees may only forfeit annual leave (Vacation Leave) for their PEP credit.
     
  • Pre-Tax Contribution Program (PTCP): PTCP allows employees to have their share of the NYSHIP health insurance premium deducted from their paycheck before taxes are withheld, which could lower their tax liability.  In exchange for the tax savings, PTCP enrollees are required to maintain the same pre-tax health insurance deduction throughout the entire plan year (unless a pre-tax qualifying event occurs).
     
  • Flex Spending Account (FSA):  FSA offers three negotiated benefits - the Health Care Spending Account (HCSA), the Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAA), and the Adoption Advantage Account.  They are types of flexible spending accounts, administered in compliance with sections 125 and 129 of the Internal Revenue Code, that you employees a way to pay for health care, dependent care, or adoption expenses with pre-tax dollars.  Enrollment is voluntary and the employee decides how much to have taken out of their paycheck and put into their accounts.  The State of New York retains the services of an FSA administrator to manage the Flexible Spending Account.  Total Administrative Services Corporation (TASC) is the FSA administrator.  Enrollment is done through Bentek on behalf of New York State and TASC.
     
  • Would you like to change your NYSHIP option? Use the Plan Comparison Tool and review a list of things to consider as you review your health plan options.
    • from an HMO to The Empire Plan
    • from The Empire Plan to an HMO that is accepting new members
    • from one HMO to another HMO that is accepting new members and has a NYSHIP service area in the area where you live or work
       
  • You must notify me of any changes to your enrollment record (home address, phone number, marital status, dependent eligibility) in a timely manner.  Changes in your family status, such as the addition or loss of a dependent, may mean that you need to change your health insurance coverage from Individual to Family or Family to Individual.  If you submit a request within 30 days of a change in family status, you may make these changes without being subject to a late enrollment waiting period.
Retirement 
  • DIRECTIONS Pre-Retirement Planning Webinar– This program was developed to assist eligible New York State employees in planning for one of the most challenging and exciting periods in life – retirement! The webinars are for employees who are eligible to retire within five years. Supervisory approval is required for employees to attend webinars during the workday. The webinars are sponsored by the Office of Employee Relations and the Office of the State Comptroller, with funding provided by the collective bargaining agreements between the State of New York and the public employee unions: CSEA, PEF, UUP, NYSCOPBA, GSEU, Council 82, DC-37 and PBANYS. The Office of Employee Relations contributes on behalf of management/confidential employees. Two webinars will be held on a Tuesday and Wednesday from October through December. Employees have the option to select which webinar days to attend, and do not need to attend consecutive days in the same month.  The webinars are scheduled for Tuesday, October 22 and Wednesday, October 23, Tuesday, November 19 and Wednesday, November 20, Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18.  Click here to register.
     
  • NYSTRS Announces Fall PREP Seminar Schedule - NYSTRS offers a proactive approach to prepare for retirement: the Pension & Retirement Education Program (PREP).  The seminar educates enrollees about financial planning, understanding NYSTRS benefits, and how their future pension fits into their overall retirement picture.  The half-day seminars are free and held throughout the state.  Click here for the Fall 2024 PREP Schedule.
     
  • TIAA Representative, Turkessa Amoah is available for in-person appointments during the dates and times listed below.  Meetings will be held in Raymond Hall’s 6th Floor Conference Room.  You may call 800-732-8353 to schedule an appointment or click here to schedule your appointment.
    • Wednesday, October 16: Available from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m.
    • Wednesday, November 20: Available from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m.
    • Wednesday, December 18: Available from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
       
  • Gain Financial Insights for Life - Live Global Webinars presented by TIAA
    • Tuesday, October 1: 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. - Protecting your savings: How to recognize and prevent account takeover schemes.
      • An account takeover can put your retirement savings and other financial accounts at risk.  This webinar will cover topics that will help you protect your savings and future. Click here to register.
    • Wednesday, October 9: 12 p.m. until 1 p.m. - Quarterly economic and market update
      • Hear from the experts in our Wealth Chief Investment Office about key drivers of the market and economy that are impacting investors.  Click here to register.
    • Is Fidelity your investment provider?  The SUNY Plan Sponsor Retirement team together with Fidelity are excited to share beneficial program updates. Review the key changes happening in the SUNY Retirement Plan and how these changes may impact your account.  Informational webinars will be held on the dates listed below.  Click on the appropriate time under the date to register for the webinar.
Domestic Violence Awareness

The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV), the NYS Council on Development Disabilities (CDD) and Elevatus Training, LLC are hosting a series of three live web-based trainings on the intersections of gender-based violence and developmental disabilities: Recognize, Respond, and Refer.  

  • Recognize - Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 10 a.m. - Noon
    Learn how to recognize the intersections of gender-based violence and developmental disabilities, including risk factors, rates of victimization, unique tactic of abuse, and signs of domestic and sexual violence.
    Register Now
     
  • Respond - Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 10 a.m. - Noon
    Develop skills to effectively respond to gender-based violence survivors with developmental disabilities and understand the roles and responsibilities within the provider system.
    Register Now
     
  • Refer - Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 10 a.m. - Noon
    Learn how to refer gender-based violence survivors with developmental disabilities to other service delivery systems and foster cross-system collaborations between developmental disability providers and the gender-based violence response system.
    Register Now
Save the Date 

A flu vaccine clinic will be available on campus on October 8th and October 21st.  More details will be available soon.

Professional Development
  • BizLibrary  - BizLibrary has over 10,000 training opportunities available to all employees?  Employees complete their required online Compliance Training using BizLibrary. Click on the Training & Development tab on the Human Resources web page for more information.
     
  • NYS/UUP JLMC offers free certification programs the Empire KnowledgeBank (EKB) Online Learning. This month's spotlight is on Business Operations. The EKB Guidelines and License application are available here.