Frequently Asked Questions
I am a new participant. When do I first become eligible for benefits? When will I receive information about the Plan?
You will become eligible for benefits on the first day of the month following the month in which you meet one of the credited-hour requirements below (based on contributions paid to the Fund).
Eligibility for Class 1 Employees and Newly Eligible Class 1 Employees (contributions are paid for credited hours):
- 300 hours of contributions, or
- 600 hours in six consecutive months, or
- 1,000 hours in nine consecutive months, or
- 1,200 hours in twelve consecutive months.
If you are disabled on your effective date, your coverage begins when you return to active work (following the same “first day of the month after” timing based on your return).
Once the Fund Office receives the required contributions and confirms your eligibility, you will be sent information about the Plan. You may also check your status through the Member Portal or by contacting the Fund Office.
View the benefit summary for Classes other than Class 1 eligibility.
What documents do I need to provide to enroll in the Plan?
You must complete all required enrollment forms and provide any supporting documentation requested by the Fund Office.
If you are enrolling dependents, documentation may be required to verify eligibility. The Fund Office will notify you if additional information is needed.
How and when may I add a dependent to my coverage?
Your eligible dependents are generally eligible for coverage as long as you are eligible.
New dependents (such as a newborn child) are eligible when acquired, provided you complete the required enrollment forms and submit any required documentation within the required time period.
I am getting divorced. When does coverage end for my former spouse and do I have the option to continue her coverage as my dependent after the divorce?
A former spouse is no longer eligible for coverage under the Plan after a divorce.
However, your former spouse may be eligible to continue coverage through COBRA continuation coverage on a self-pay basis, subject to COBRA rules, notice requirements, and election deadlines.
You should contact the Fund Office as soon as possible to report the divorce and to receive information about continuation coverage options.
How do I qualify for the Retiree coverage?
To qualify for retiree health coverage under the Welfare Fund, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- You are receiving an Early, Regular, or Disability Pension from the Electrical Workers General Pension Fund (Local 701 Pension Fund)
- You were eligible for benefits under this Plan for at least 10 years
- You were eligible for benefits under this Plan for at least 3 of the last 5 years immediately preceding retirement
Will the Plan provide ID cards?
Yes. ID cards are issued by the applicable claims administrators, such as the medical, prescription drug, dental, or vision providers.
If you do not receive an ID card, need a replacement, or are unsure which card to use, contact the Fund Office or the applicable administrator.
How can I find out the status of my claims?
Most claims are submitted directly by your provider. Once a claim has been processed and paid, it will appear in the Member Portal.
If you use an out-of-network provider who does not submit claims on your behalf, you may need to file a claim yourself following the Plan’s claim procedures.
If a claim does not appear in the Member Portal or you have questions about a pending claim, you may contact the applicable claims administrator or the Fund Office for assistance.
How do I check my eligibility status?
You may check your eligibility status through the Member Portal.
You may also contact the Fund Office directly if you need confirmation or assistance understanding your coverage.