You should ensure the employee on leave get the same chances to review their enrollment options and make selections as everyone else. Here are our recommended steps:
- Make sure you have updated contact information for the employee on leave so you can alert them when it’s time for open enrollment.
- Send the materials or link to the enrollment platform with clear instructions and deadlines. If the leave they’re on is unpaid, highlight how their premium will be collected during that leave.
- Follow up with reminders as needed, trying different contact methods if you’ve received no response.
- If the employee doesn’t complete their enrollment on time, treat them as you would employees not on leave who didn’t finish the process—sending the appropriate notices and explaining what happens next.
As during any open enrollment period, the key is to communicate with your employee so they know what to expect, what your deadlines are, and what happens when deadlines are missed. When in doubt, confirm specifics with your carrier or broker and follow your plan documents.
This Q&A does not constitute legal advice and does not address state or local law.
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