Insurance Benefits

As a public university, FIU offers health benefits through the State of Florida administered by People First. People First serves as the plan administrator for the State Group Insurance Program and is responsible for managing enrollments, eligibility determinations, enrollment changes, COBRA administration, and retiree coverage.

 In accordance with the Division of State Group Insurance (DSGI) provisions, OPS (variable hour/ temporary) employees may become eligible for health insurance benefits when they meet specific eligibility criteria as determined by People First. To confirm eligibility status or obtain enrollment assistance, employees must contact the People First Service Center directly at 866-663-4735.

 New and returning State of Florida employees, as well as those employed at multiple State agencies, colleges, or universities within the same calendar year should contact People First directly to verify benefits eligibility, enrollment, and coverage status, as applicable based on their State of Florida employment records.

 For more details and important information, review the OPS Benefits Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

Resources

• Temporary Employee Benefits Checklist
• Benefits Overview for OPS Temporary Employees Presentation Video
• Eligibility and Enrollment
• Benefits Guide
• How to Enroll in Insurance Benefits in People First

FICA Alternative Plan

The FICA Alternative Plan is a qualified savings plan that allows temporary employees to contribute a percentage of their before-tax wages to investment accounts.  The employee has the ability to manage his/her own account.

See BENCOR Website – FICA Alternative Plan Information

As of February 1, 2009, all temporary, part-time, and seasonal FIU employees who are not covered by the State Retirement System will participate in a qualified savings plan, administered through Bencor, Inc. In lieu of paying 6.2% of after-tax wages to Social Security, eligible employees will contribute 7.5% of their before-tax wages to an investment account under their name (Medicare contributions of 1.45% will continue to be withheld and matched by FIU). All temporary eligible employees, excluding students, are automatically enrolled in this plan.

• Informational Video
• Plan Overview
• FICA Plan – FAQs
• Easy Access to your FICA account
• Spousal Consent Form
• Bencor Financial Wellness Site

Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan (403(b) & 457(b) plans)

FIU offers Voluntary Savings Plans to help eligible employees supplement their retirement savings through convenient payroll deductions. These plans are available on an optional and voluntary basis to adjunct faculty and non-student temporary employees. Participation and contributions are subject to plan provisions and IRS annual contribution limits.

 Important information for new and ongoing participants: 

• Review the available plan options and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making enrollment or contribution decisions.
• Deferral elections should be reviewed every semester as voluntary retirement plan payroll deductions automatically end upon appointment separation, such as at the end of a contract or academic term. If rehired, the employee must submit a new salary deferral election to resume payroll contributions.
• Participants should regularly review their biweekly contribution(s) and make adjustments as needed to stay on track with their savings goals. This is especially important when there are changes to contract status, renewal dates, or compensation amount.

 For additional and personalized guidance, participants may wish to consult a qualified financial or tax advisor. Visit the Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan section for information on plan details, provider information, and many other resources.