Stanford University's Benefits Open Enrollment is an annual event that allows employees to review, modify, and enroll in the university's benefits programs. The open enrollment period typically takes place in the fall, with changes effective on January 1 of the following year. During this time, employees can assess their current benefits and make adjustments as needed to ensure they are adequately covered for the upcoming year.
Overview of Stanford Benefits
Stanford University offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plans. The university’s benefits programs are designed to provide employees with a high level of coverage and flexibility, allowing them to choose the options that best meet their individual needs. Medical plans offered by Stanford include traditional preferred provider organization (PPO) plans, as well as health maintenance organization (HMO) plans, which provide a more structured approach to healthcare.
Medical Plan Options
Stanford’s medical plans are designed to provide employees with a range of choices to suit their healthcare needs. The university offers several PPO plans, including the Stanford Health Care Alliance (SHCA) plan, which provides access to a network of physicians and healthcare providers affiliated with Stanford Health Care. In addition to PPO plans, Stanford also offers HMO plans, which provide a more coordinated approach to healthcare. Exclusive provider organization (EPO) plans are also available, which offer a balance between the flexibility of a PPO and the structure of an HMO.
| Medical Plan | Network | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| SHCA PPO | Stanford Health Care Alliance | $500/month |
| Kaiser HMO | Kaiser Permanente | $400/month |
| Blue Shield EPO | Blue Shield of California | $450/month |
Dental and Vision Plans
In addition to medical plans, Stanford University also offers dental and vision plans to its employees. The university’s dental plans provide coverage for routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, and other dental procedures. Vision plans offer coverage for eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses. Employees can choose from a range of plan options, including PPO and HMO plans, to ensure they receive the coverage they need.
Dental Plan Options
Stanford’s dental plans are designed to provide employees with a range of choices to suit their oral health needs. The university offers several PPO plans, including the Delta Dental PPO plan, which provides access to a network of dentists and oral healthcare providers. In addition to PPO plans, Stanford also offers HMO plans, which provide a more structured approach to dental care.
- Delta Dental PPO: $50/month premium, $1,000 annual maximum
- MetLife HMO: $40/month premium, $500 annual maximum
- UnitedHealthcare EPO: $45/month premium, $750 annual maximum
Life Insurance and Retirement Plans
Stanford University also offers life insurance and retirement plans to its employees. The university’s life insurance plans provide a death benefit to employees’ beneficiaries in the event of their passing. Retirement plans offer employees a way to save for their future, with options such as 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees can contribute to these plans on a tax-deferred basis, and the university may also contribute to the plans on their behalf.
Retirement Plan Options
Stanford’s retirement plans are designed to provide employees with a range of choices to suit their individual needs. The university offers several plan options, including the Stanford University Retirement Plan (SURP), which provides a guaranteed minimum benefit to employees who participate in the plan. In addition to the SURP, Stanford also offers other retirement plan options, such as the 403(b) plan and the 457(b) plan.
- Stanford University Retirement Plan (SURP): guaranteed minimum benefit, 10% university contribution
- 403(b) plan: tax-deferred contributions, investment options
- 457(b) plan: tax-deferred contributions, investment options
What is the deadline for making changes to my benefits during Open Enrollment?
+The deadline for making changes to your benefits during Open Enrollment is typically in late November, with changes effective on January 1 of the following year. Employees should review the university’s benefits website for specific deadlines and instructions.
Can I enroll in benefits at any time during the year?
+No, employees can only enroll in benefits or make changes to their existing benefits during the annual Open Enrollment period, unless they experience a qualifying life event, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. Employees should review the university’s benefits website for information on qualifying life events and the process for making changes to their benefits outside of Open Enrollment.
