Employee Matters

This column is prepared by staff from the Office of Human Resources. E-mail questions or call 262-5650. For more information, visit Payroll and Benefits Services.

May Multiples and summer benefit deductions

Academic-year based employees who will return to employment in the fall and certain other unclassified employees have extra insurance deductions taken from the May payroll check (paid June 1) to provide coverage through the summer months.

These extra premiums are referred to as the “May Multiples.” Deductions then automatically resume with the September payroll check (paid Oct. 1).

Those not eligible for May multiple insurance deductions can still ensure continuous coverage during the summer. Arrange to pay by personal check or elect to have extra deductions taken from payroll checks before going off payroll.

Contact your department benefits coordinator or e-mail benefits@ohr.wisc.edu as soon as you know that you will not be on payroll for the summer.

How is the number of deductions determined?

Four deductions will be taken for each insurance program, one each for May, June, July, and August payrolls. If you retire or terminate during any of these months, the number will be lower because you are not eligible for deductions beyond the month in which you end employment.

What about multiple deductions for the tax-sheltered annuities, deferred compensation or Employee Reimbursement Accounts (ERA) programs?

Multiple deductions are not taken for tax-sheltered annuities, deferred compensation or ERA. Consider this when enrolling in these programs. Deductions for these programs will automatically resume with the Oct. 1 check.

How do I continue benefits if I will terminate employment in the summer?

Advise your department benefits coordinator of your termination date as soon you know it. You may request continuation/conversion information and application forms for benefit plans that you want to continue. However, many of these forms should be mailed to you by the end of the month in which your health insurance ends.

Application deadlines apply to each plan. Therefore, be sure to immediately report a home address change to the Office of Human Resources. This can be handled by sending an e-mail to payroll@ohr.wisc.edu or through your My UW portal account.

How do I continue benefits if I will retire in the summer?

Make an appointment with a benefits specialist. A benefits specialist will advise you about continuation/conversion of your benefits and conversion of sick leave for continuation of state group health insurance with the Department of Employee Trust Funds.

What if I anticipate a family status change in the summer?

Notify your department benefits coordinator right away if a family status change such as a marriage, divorce or birth occurs during the summer. Most plans have 30-day deadlines for making changes, so you should not wait until you return to work to submit applications.

What if I have questions or want more information?

Visit the Office of Human Resources or e-mail Payroll and Benefits Services.