Employee Matters

This column is prepared by staff of the Employee Compensation and Benefits Services office. You may e-mail us at employee@bussvc.wisc.edu, or call Employee Services at 263-7556 or 262-5650.

Things to do when you end employment
I’m terminating employment with the UW. Can I continue any of my benefits?

Yes. Contact a benefits specialist in EC&BS who will go over the benefits in which you are enrolled and provide you with the necessary continuation or conversion information and application forms. You can find more information on this topic at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/emp-termination-menu.html.

If I don’t continue or convert my benefits, when does my coverage terminate?
Each plan has a different date on which premiums have been paid that determines when the benefit will terminated. For example, if you terminate employment in May, your health insurance coverage will be paid through July, and your coverage will end on July 31. Specific coverage termination information for each plan can be found at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/emp-termination-menu.html.

How much does it cost to continue each plan?
A plan that provides for “continuation” rights means that the premiums you pay as an active employee will remain the same if you continue. The rates for each of the benefit plans can be found at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/emp-ins-rates-menu.html .

Some plans offer only “conversion” coverage. This means that you will pay more for the coverage than you would if you were entitled to “continuation.”

Conversion rates must be obtained directly from the benefit plan administrator. A list of administrators can be found at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/adm-benefit-program-information-links-uw1394.htm.

How do I learn about benefits available to me if I retire?
Make an appointment with a benefits specialist by calling the Employee Compensation and Benefits Services appointment desk at 262-1212 from 7:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or complete the online form. Appointments are limited, so request an appointment one to two months before your retirement date. A benefits specialist can counsel you about continuation or conversion of your benefits, and the specialist will coordinate conversion of your sick leave credits to pay for your state group health insurance through the Department of Employee Trust Funds. View more information about benefits upon retirement at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/emp-retirement-menu.html.

How do I update my address and bank information if I am moving at the time of termination?
To update your address in the payroll system, you must complete the Employee Information Form (UW1035) and return it to your payroll office. Determine if you will be moving before your last paycheck is issued. You can verify your last pay date on the pay schedule calendar at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/emp-calendars-schedules-menu.html.

If you participate in direct deposit and you are not closing your account before your last payroll, no action is required. If you are closing your account before the last payroll, complete a Direct Deposit Authorization Form (UW1032) to direct your check to the proper account.

If you do not participate in direct deposit, you must provide the Employee Compensation and Benefits Services office with a self-addressed stamped envelope so your final check can be sent to you.

Other questions?
Visit the EC&BS Web site at http://www.bussvc.wisc.edu/ecbs/ecbs.html or send your question to employee@bussvc.wisc.edu.