As we continue to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, we want to remind you that Pearson offers multiple quality health plan options along with emotional support services. With that in mind, it is now time to prepare to decide on your coverage for 2021.
Every year, we evaluate the cost of our plans and share the changes to your per paycheck contributions for the upcoming year. Pearson continues its average contribution of approximately 80% toward the cost of medical coverage while employees contribute 20%, in aggregate. Employees enrolled in the national medical plans (those administered by Anthem, Cigna and Aetna) and Delta Dental PPO will see an increase of 1.1 %. Kaiser plan participants will experience an increase of 4.7%. Vision per paycheck contributions will increase 1.9%.
There will be no change in your costs for Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability and the Dental HMO.
We are pleased to announce that for the first time ever, we will be hosting Virtual Benefit Fairs so that you can learn about the various ancillary services that Pearson offers. You can participate from the location of your choice while gaining valuable information that you or your family members may need in the future. Refer to the article, Virtual Benefit Fair During Open Enrollment to find out more.
Here are a few important reminders as you plan for your 2021 enrollment:
- The Health Savings Account (HSA) and Commuter/Parking elections do not carry over from year to year (2020 balances will roll over into 2021) — you must make an election for 2021, even if you want to continue with the same per paycheck election next year.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) elections and 2020 balances do not carry over from year to year. You must make an election if you want to participate in an FSA.
- The enrollment system closes at 11:59 pm Eastern on October 23. Be sure to make your elections before then. Requests for exceptions to the deadline will not be approved.
While this issue of For Your Benefit magazine is focused on Open Enrollment, we also cover some health awareness campaigns including:
- World Psoriasis Day, which sheds light on a condition that can be difficult to manage.
- Learn more about Bone and Joint Health Week and how you can take good care of these crucial body structures.
- For breast and lung health, be sure to review the reminders about making the most use of your preventive health benefits
Please be sure to take full advantage of all the resources available to you — this newsletter, Pearson Benefits website and Mercer Marketplace — as you consider your 2021 benefit elections. The past several months have certainly reinforced the importance of making informed health coverage decisions for ourselves and our loved ones.
In Good Health,
Stacey Rodgers
Director, Global Benefits
