November 2001 Trust Talk

What Happens To Benefits

If Called to Active Military Duty Following September 11, 2001

Following September 11, 2001, the Trust began examining its contracts with providers, especially with Prudential. Prudential has assured us that the war exclusion clause would not apply to any claims resulting from the September 11, 2001 events. To date, no Union-represented State employees have filed claims related to the 9/11 tragedies, but Prudential promises to handle any such claims as quickly as possible.

Additionally, we have clarified the ongoing definition of “war” with Prudential as it applies to the treatment of claims filed after September 11, 2001. The Trust life insurance contracts (basic and supplemental life insurance) do not exclude deaths resulting from an act of war, but the Accidental Death benefit contracts do.

Recent legislation signed by Governor Taft continues dental, vision and basic life benefits for public employees called to active service. Premiums for coverage will continue to be paid by that State. See the State’s website for current information.

For dental, vision and basic life insurance, coverage for you and your dependents will continue as long as premiums are paid. Coverage for dental or vision services or supplies necessary due to acts of war may not be covered, but covered services or supplies for dependents not on active duty will be. Members concerned about coverage should read their plan booklets and then refer to governing plan documents if necessary.

Supplemental life benefits will be available to members enrolled, while actively serving in the military, as long as they continue to pay their premiums (and enrolled dependents' premiums)* directly to Prudential.

*The situation is different for supplemental life coverage for dependents: no supplemental life insurance coverage is available to dependents (spouse and/or children) when the dependent is serving on active duty in the military. Affected members must call Prudential at 800-778-3827 to have their premiums amended or to arrange for supplemental life continuation.

Working Solutions Service just announced that they will continue to offer work/life benefits to families of members called to military duty to help maintain balance at this critical time. To learn how Working Solutions Service might assist you, we suggest you review the plan booklet and also consider contacting them at 800-358-8515 or online by linking through the Trust’s website.

We will publish updated information as we receive it on our web site and in our next quarterly issue of Trust Talk.

Contact Trust customer service at 614-508-2255 or 800-228-5088 if you have any additional questions regarding your benefits or you require assistance.