Life always brings change. Even though your benefits take effect January 1 and remain in place through December 31, sometimes qualifying life events can change your benefits needs. The birth or adoption of a child, marriage, divorce, or your spouse gaining or losing coverage can all be eligible events. You can make changes to your benefits within 30 days of a qualifying life event.
Having a baby? Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! We understand how busy this time can be, but remember that you must notify UNCA Benefits within 30 days of your child’s date of birth to add them to your insurance.
Notifying UNCA Benefits of Life Events
Let us know by sending an email to benefits@unca.edu with your documentation no later than 30 days from the event. Once you submit your documentation, you will receive an email notification when you can log in to Benefitfocus to make your changes, typically within 24-48 hours. If you miss this 30 day window, you will not be able to make changes until the next Open Enrollment period for the following benefits year.
What we Need
| Qualifying Life Event | Required Documentation |
|---|---|
| Birth or adoption | birth: copy of hospital issued birth certificate or hospital issued statement of birth; adoption: copy in English of the adoption paperwork from the state or country of origin |
| Marriage | copy of marriage certificate |
| Divorce or legal separation | copy of legal document showing the date of separation or divorce |
| Spouse/dependent gains or loses other coverage or eligibility | letter from the new employer or health care provider stating the first day of coverage; Loses coverage – letter from the former employer or health care provider stating the last day of coverage. |
| Change in employment status (full-time/part-time) | no additional documentation needed |