News About Your Benefits for July 2020

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July 1, 2020

e r s news about your benefits
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Starting in September, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas will manage HealthSelect mental health benefits

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Use Provider Finder to see if your provider will be in the new, larger network or to find a new provider

On September 1, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas will manage mental health benefits for HealthSelectSM participants, replacing Magellan Healthcare®. More than 91% of current Magellan providers have signed up to participate in the new HealthSelect network—and more are expected to join by September 1. Learn how to find a mental health care provider in the HealthSelect network.

Headlines for the Month

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CARES Act and IRS Notice 2020-29 allow for changes to some TexFlex rules

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and IRS Notice 2020-29 allow for the following changes to TexFlexSM flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Please note that most changes apply only to FSAs, but one also applies to health savings accounts (HSAs). Learn about the rule changes.

Webinar

Texa$aver Information Session webinars available in July and August

It is never too early or too late to start saving for retirement.  Information Sessions for the Texa$averSM 401(k) / 457 Program have the answers you need. Learn Texa$aver Information Session dates and how to register.

Dependents

Understanding life insurance evidence of insurability (EOI)

Don’t shy away from applying for life insurance that requires medical consideration

During Summer Enrollment, you may apply for Optional Term and/or Dependent Term Life Insurance by providing EOI to demonstrate your good health. Learn how easy the life insurance EOI process is.

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ERS Contact Center fields questions, lends support

Week after week, counselors in ERS’ Contact Center assist thousands of State of Texas employees and retirees. Read about this important front-line role and learn how to connect with ERS when you need help.

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HealthSelect participants: Small steps make a difference toward a healthier life

Managing your weight can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know where to start. Your HealthSelectSM plan includes weight management programs at no additional cost. Whether you’re spending more time at home or getting back to a routine, it’s the perfect time to focus on taking care of yourself. Check out your HealthSelect plan’s options.

Events Calendar

Some of these events may be full. You can put your name on a waiting list on the Events Calendar page or sign up for another session.

Please note: In rare cases, ERS has to cancel or change events due to issues beyond our control. When possible, we will provide notice of cancellations or changes on the ERS website. We encourage you to check our Events Calendar the morning of the event for any updates.

Summer Enrollment Webinars

Visit the Summer Enrollment Events page to see the webinar schedule

Wellness events

Visit the Wellness Calendar

July 3 Holiday closure

ERS will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.

 

Discount Purchase Program

administered by BENEPLACE

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New this month: The ERS Discount Purchase Program Welcome page is getting a refreshed look. Instead of clicking the green button for “Active Employees,” you will choose your status from a drop-down menu and acknowledge you understand the terms of the program. Select “I am an Employee” to access the same great savings you love.

Save on summer fun
Summer activities may look a little different this year, but the Discount Purchase Program still has plenty of specials to help you enjoy the season:

  • See some sights while maintaining safe social distancing by renting an RV. Save up to 25% on rentals from RVshare.
  • Cool off at Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts and save 15% on resort rooms. (Check the website about waterpark reservations.)
  • Your digital devices are for fun, too! Save on the latest Apple products and accessories, including the iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, Apple TV and more.

Find these offers and more on the Discount Purchase Program website.