Benefits

Those impacted by the University's staff reduction will receive information regarding salary and benefits continuance that will assist in making decisions about coverage and plans during this transition.

Medical/Dental/Vision and Life Insurance will continue through December 31, 2009 or until eligible for other coverage whichever comes first. Separated employees will be charged for the premium based on 2009 benefit rates. After health benefits are terminated the option of continuing coverage through COBRA is available. Learn more about COBRA coverage and rates.

Vacation
Payment for earned but unused vacation leave (up to 32 days for administrators) will be paid out per Policy 41.000 (classified) and Policy 41.001 (administrator) in a lump sum to the employee at the current rate of pay, provided the employee has completed the initial probationary period. The lump sum payment will be made in the first pay cycle after separation.

A 403(b) and/or a 457 supplemental retirement account provides a way to avoid possible tax penalties due to receiving a vacation payout. Contact an Ohio University approved provider to set up an account.

Sick Leave
Earned but unused sick leave will only be paid out to retiring employees; however, balances will remain on file should the employee return to Ohio University or another state employer.  To transfer sick leave balances to another state employer, contact the records department at University Human Resources at 593-1650 or 593-2096.

Educational Benefits
Employees or covered family members who are enrolled at the time of the reduction in force notice will continue to receive tuition assistance for the needed years to graduate (not to exceed three years at the undergraduate level or not to exceed one year at the graduate level).  The benefit will be at the same level received at termination.  

It is the separated employee's responsibility to provide the Educational Benefits Request Form (available at http://www.ohio.edu/hr/forms.cfm) to University Human Resources on a quarterly basis in order to maintain this benefit.

WellWorks
The health and well-being of employees who are laid off due to a reduction in force is of deep concern to the University.  Exercise and wellness programs can help offset the physical and emotional results that stress can create on the body.  To help employees during this stressful transition, WellWorks is providing one year of FREE membership to any employee who is terminated due to position abolishment.  The one year period may begin as early as the date of receipt of layoff notice or as late as the separation date.  To enroll, please stop by WellWorks located in Grover Center E124.

OAK E-mail Accounts
E-mail accounts will remain active for one year beyond the separation date for employees laid off due to position abolishment.

Other Discounts
Employees who are laid off due to position abolishment may continue to take advantage of the following discounts for the specified duration:

• Performing Arts Series – Coupons will be distributed for events in the 2009-10 series year
•  Athletic season and single event tickets – employee pricing to continue for the 2009-10 athletic seasons
• Computer purchase discounts through the Office of Information Technology – employee level discounts for one year beyond separation
•  Relocation discounts available through United Van Lines and Pro Moving Systems