FAQs
General Questions
- What benefits does the Fund provide to retired members and/or their dependents?
- What benefits does the Fund provide to active members and/or their dependents?
Eligibility Questions
- How do I become eligible for retiree Plan benefits?
- How do I become eligible for active Plan benefits?
- How can I find out if my dependent is eligible for Plan coverage?
- At what age is my child no longer eligible for coverage?
- I’m retiring, can I continue my benefits?
- I’m leaving covered employment, can I continue my benefits?
- What happens if my coverage lapses and I return to work?
- I’m getting married, what do I need to do?
COBRA
- What benefits will I have under COBRA?
- If I continue benefits by making self-payments directly to the Fund, can I also get COBRA coverage?
- How much are the COBRA premiums?
- How long can I be covered under COBRA?
Medical Questions
- What are my medical benefits?
- Can somone act on my behalf when I need medical care?
- Does the Fund offer access to a PPO network?
- How can I find a network doctor or hospital?
- What percentage of my medical expenses will the Plan cover?
- What are the Plan’s medical deductible and out-of-pocket maximum amounts?
Prescription Drug Questions
- I’m retired. Am I eligible to receive prescription drug benefits?
- How can I find a network pharmacy?
- Who should I call if I have a question about my prescription drug benefits, the Fund or Sav-Rx?
Vision Questions
- Does the Fund offer access to a vision network?
- Are my spouse and/or children eligible for vision coverage?
- Does the Plan cover vision exam services that are not provided by a network provider?
- Are eye exams free?
- I need to find an optometrist in my area. What should I do?
- If I retire, will I still have coverage for vision care?
Dental Questions
- Does the Fund offer access to a dental network?
- Will I have to pay a deductible for dental care?
- Are my spouse and/or children eligible for dental coverage?
- Are dental exams and cleanings free?
- If I retire, will I still have coverage for dental care?
HRA Questions
- If I retire, can I still contribute to my HRA?
- How is the HRA funded?
- What happens to the money left over in my account at the end of the year?
- Should I save my receipts?
- Can I check the status of my transactions online?
- How do I get reimbursement from my HRA?
Dollar Bank Questions
Claims Questions
- Where should I go to review the status of a medical claim?
- How can I find out how much I have accumulated toward my medical deductible or out-of-pocket limits?
- Where should I go to review the status of a dental claim?
- What happens if my claim is denied?
- How do I file a claim?
- How do I apply for Weekly Disability benefits?
Mental Health/Substance Abuse Questions
- Which providers should I use for mental health and/or substance abuse treatment?
- How can I find a therapist that handles mental health and/or substance abuse problems?
- Does the Plan cover outpatient treatment for mental health and/or substance abuse?
- Does treatment for mental health and/or substance abuse have to be pre-approved?
- How do I get a referral to an in-network mental health and/or substance abuse provider?
- How soon must I call ComPsych for inpatient mental health and/or substance abuse treatment?
Smoking Cessation Questions
- Are my children eligible for the smoking cessation benefit?
- I need help to quit smoking. How many times can I speak with a counselor?
- Does the Plan’s smoking cessation benefit cover the cost of prescription drugs?
General Questions
What benefits does the Fund provide to retired members and/or their dependents?
If you are no longer actively employed due to retirement or a disability, you may be eligible for retiree benefits. The level and type of benefit coverage is based on whether you are eligible for Medicare coverage. To learn more, refer to Retiree Benefits.
What benefits does the Fund provide to active members and/or their dependents?
The Fund offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Medical
- Prescription Drug
- Dental
- Vision
- HRA
- Member Assistance Program (MAP)
- Weekly Disability
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- Free & Clear Quit For Life® Program (smoking cessation benefit)
To learn more, refer to Member Benefits.
Eligibility Questions
How do I become eligible for retiree Plan benefits?
To be eligible for retiree benefits, you must:
- Retire from the industry (due to age or disability) under a qualified pension plan;
- Be at least age 57 1/2;
- Have been eligible for Plan benefits for at least 48 of the most recent 60 months; and
- Have been eligible for Plan benefits at the time of retirement.
When you become eligible for retiree benefits, coverage is also available for your spouse and dependent children, if they were eligible for coverage at the time of your retirement. To learn more, refer to Retiree Benefits.
How do I become eligible for active Plan benefits?
If you are a bargaining unit employee, you become eligible for active Plan benefits based on the amount in your Dollar Bank. You become eligible for benefits after the minimum required amount has been credited to your Dollar Bank (without self-payment).
If you are a new employee or a salaried employee, you may also become eligible for coverage.
Refer to Eligibility for complete details on the requirements that apply to all active employees.
How can I find out if my dependent is eligible for Plan coverage?
In order for your dependents to be covered under the Fund, they must meet certain eligibility requirements. Refer to Eligibility for details.
At what age is my child no longer eligible for coverage?
Refer to Eligibility for information on dependent eligibility.
I’m retiring, can I continue my benefits?
To be eligible for retiree Plan benefits, you must:
- Retire from the industry under a qualified pension plan;
- Be at least age 57 1/2;
- Have been eligible for benefits for at least 48 of the most recent 60 months; and
- Have been eligible for Plan benefits at the time of retirement.
When you become eligible for retiree benefits, coverage is also available for your spouse and dependent children, if they were eligible for coverage at the time of your retirement. To learn more, refer to Retiree Benefits.
I’m leaving covered employment, can I continue my benefits?
Yes, you may be able to continue coverage through COBRA. In most situations, if you want to continue coverage under COBRA, you must contact the Fund Office within 60 days from the date you and/or your dependent’s eligibility would otherwise end.
What happens if my coverage lapses and I return to work?
If you leave covered employment and later return to work, you must again meet the initial eligibility requirements. Contact the Fund Office at 1-304-525-0331 or 1-888-466-9094 for more information.
I’m getting married, what do I need to do?
- Notify the Fund Office of your marriage by calling 1-304-525-0331 or 1-888-466-9094, or send an email to the Fund Office.
- Complete a new Enrollment Form.
- Submit a copy of your marriage certificate to the Fund Office.
COBRA
What benefits will I have under COBRA?
If you elect COBRA Continuation Coverage, the Plan will provide Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance benefits coverage that is identical to that provided to employees and their dependents.
If I continue benefits by making self-payments directly to the Fund, can I also get COBRA coverage?
No. Any period of time in which you continue your coverage by making self-payments directly to the Fund will be counted to reduce the continuation period you would be eligible for under COBRA.
How long can I be covered under COBRA?
You may continue your Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance benefits for 18 months, 29 months, or 36 months, if applicable. Click here for full details about COBRA Continuation Coverage.
Medical Questions
What are my medical benefits?
If you are a regular, active member, your medical plan is determined by the contribution paid by your employer as required by your collective bargaining agreement. Your medical benefits are provided under either the Comprehensive Major Medical Plan or the Flexible Choice Plan.
If you are a member of the CW/CE classification, your medical plan is the Flexible Choice Plan.
Can somone act on my behalf when I need medical care?
You can appoint an authorized representative by following the Fund’s policy as outlined in the March 1 Notice.
Does the Fund offer access to a PPO network?
Yes. The Fund contracts with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in order to provide members with access to the BCBS PPO network. To locate a network doctor, hospital or facility, go to www.anthem.com or call 1-800-810-2583.
How can I find a network doctor or hospital?
To locate an Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield doctor, hospital or facility, go to www.anthem.com or call 1-800-810-2583.
What percentage of my medical expenses will the Plan cover?
Generally, after the deductible, the Plan covers 80% of covered medical expenses for PPO providers and all emergency medical care and 60% for non-PPO providers. Note: Emergency medical care received at non-PPO hospitals is covered as in-network care at 80%. For a summary of medical benefit coverage, refer to Medical Benefits.
What are the Plan’s medical deductible and out-of-pocket maximum amounts?
Each year the Plan covers a portion of eligible expenses after you satisfy the calendar year deductible. Refer to the Benefit Summary for each medical plan for details. Generally, charges applied to the in-network deductible will also apply to the out-of-network deductible and vice versa. The out-of-pocket maximum includes the deducible expense. Amounts applied to the in-network out-of-pocket maximum will also apply to the out-of-network out-of-pocket maximum and vice versa. In addition, once you reach the out-of-pocket maximum, the Plan covers 100% of eligible expenses for the remainder of the calendar year.
Prescription Drug Questions
I’m retired. Am I eligible to receive prescription drug benefits?
Yes. If you are retired due to age or disability, you and your dependents will be eligible to receive the same prescription drug coverage as active participants.
If you are Medicare-eligible and you elect to join another Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, you will not be eligible to purchase the Medicare Supplement Program the Plan offers.
To learn more, refer to Retiree Benefits.
How can I find a network pharmacy?
To find a Sav-Rx retail pharmacy, call 1-866-233-IBEW (4239) or go to www.savrx.com (you will need to enter “IBEWD4” for the group number).
Who should I call if I have a question about my prescription drug benefits, the Fund or Sav-Rx?
You can call Sav-Rx at 1-866-233-IBEW (4239)
Vision Questions
Does the Fund offer access to a vision network?
Yes. The Fund provides vision care exam benefits for you and your family through an arrangement with National Vision Administrators (NVA).
Are my spouse and/or children eligible for vision coverage?
Yes. Vision care benefits are available to you and your family.
Does the Plan cover vision exam services that are not provided by a network provider?
Yes. However, you may be responsible for the difference between the amount applicable under the NVA plan and the amount actually charged for the exam by the non-NVA network provider. Refer to Vision Benefits.
Are eye exams free?
Yes, the Plan covers one exam per year, if performed by an NVA provider.
I need to find an optometrist in my area. What should I do?
To locate a participating NVA provider, refer to the directory provided by NVA or call 1-800-672-7723.
If I retire, will I still have coverage for vision care?
Yes, but only if you are not eligible for Medicare. When you become eligible for Medicare, you will have coverage for certain vision expenses under Medicare Part B.
Dental Questions
Does the Fund offer access to a dental network?
No. When you need dental care, you can see any dentist you choose.
Will I have to pay a deductible for dental care?
There is no deductible for preventive services. The Fund pays 100%, up to the reasonable and customary charge, for preventive services you receive, such as oral exams and routine cleanings. However, a calendar year deductible does apply for non-preventive services. Refer to Dental Benefits.
Are my spouse and/or children eligible for dental coverage?
Yes.
Are dental exams and cleanings free?
Yes. The Plan covers dental exams and cleanings 100% twice in a calendar year.
If I retire, will I still have coverage for dental care?
Yes, but only if you are not eligible for Medicare. When you become eligible for Medicare, you will have coverage for certain dental expenses under Medicare Part B.
HRA Questions
If I retire, can I still contribute to my HRA?
No. Once you retire, you may access any credits (amounts) that remain in your HRA account and use them to pay for eligible health care services and supplies that are not covered by the Plan. However, you will not be able to contribute any new amounts to the account.
How is the HRA funded?
Your employer contributes toward an HRA on your behalf for each hour you work. This contribution is part of the negotiated employer hourly contribution to the Plan.
What happens to the money left over in my account at the end of the year?
Any unused HRA balance is rolled over from year to year, so it is possible to use these accumulated funds to pay for larger expenses you may have in the future, including self contributions.
Should I save my receipts?
You are strongly encouraged to save all your receipts as there is a chance that American Benefit Corporation may ask for a copy at some point.
Can I check the status of my transactions online?
At this time, you can track your current account balance and pending transactions through the Benny Card site at www.mybenny.com. Ultimately, our goal is to have HRA account access through the Member Dashboard on our Web site. Watch for more information on that in the near future. In the meantime, if you have not registered on the Member Dashboard, go to the New User Registration page to set up your account.
How do I get reimbursement from my HRA?
Please refer to Health Reimbursement Arrangement for information.
Dollar Bank Questions
What’s my dollar bank balance?
You can review your dollar bank balance by logging in to the Member Dashboard from the home page.
How long until my balance is exhausted?
Log in to the Member Dashboard from the home page to determine when your dollar bank will be exhausted, assuming no additional contributions are paid by an employer.
Claims Questions
Where should I go to review the status of a medical claim?
You can review the status of your claim and get information about your out-of-pocket costs by loging in to the Member Dashboard.
How can I find out how much I have accumulated toward my medical deductible or out-of-pocket limits?
You can get information about your medical deductible and your out-of-pocket costs by going to the Member Dashboard Login.
Where should I go to review the status of a dental claim?
You can review the status of your claim and get information about your out-of-pocket costs by going to the Member Dashboard Login.
What happens if my claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you have a right to appeal your claim. You must file your appeal within certain timeframes. For details on the claims appeal process, refer to Forms & Documents or contact the Fund Office at 1-304-525-0331 or 1-888-466-9094.
How do I file a claim?
How you file a claim depends upon whether you are an active employee or a retired employee, as well as the type of service you receive (medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, etc.). To find out more, refer to the appropriate benefit page in the Member Benefits section. Claim forms are available on the Forms & Documents page.
How do I apply for Weekly Disability benefits?
Please refer to Weekly Disability Claims for information.
Mental Health/Substance Abuse Questions
Which providers should I use for mental health and/or substance abuse treatment?
ComPsych is the network provider for mental health and substance abuse treatment. The network is nationwide and consists of professional therapists, hospitals, and alternate care facilities. To find a provider, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
How can I find a therapist that handles mental health and/or substance abuse problems?
The ComPsych network consists of professional therapists, hospitals, and alternate care facilities. To find a provider, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
Does the Plan cover outpatient treatment for mental health and/or substance abuse?
Yes, the Plan covers outpatient treatment for mental health and substance abuse. However, before receiving treatment, you must contact ComPsych for a referral. If you fail to obtain an in-network referral from ComPsych, your future claims will be paid at the out-of-network benefit level. To get a referral to an in-network provider, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
Does treatment for mental health and/or substance abuse have to be pre-approved?
Yes, inpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment must be pre-authorized through ComPsych. You must contact ComPsych before a hospital admission, except in the case of an emergency. If your hospitalization is emergent, you must call ComPsych within 72 hours of the hospital admission. Failure to obtain the required pre-authorization may result in penalties. To pre-authorize your care, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
How do I get a referral to an in-network mental health and/or substance abuse provider?
To get a referral to an in-network provider, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
How soon must I call ComPsych for inpatient mental health and/or substance abuse treatment?
You must contact ComPsych before a hospital admission, except in the case of an emergency. If your hospitalization is emergent, you must call ComPsych within 72 hours of the hospital admission. Failure to obtain the required pre-authorization may result in penalties. To pre-authorize your care, call ComPsych at 1-877-627-4239.
Smoking Cessation Questions
Are my children eligible for the smoking cessation benefit?
Only your adult dependents are eligible to participate in the Free & Clear Quit For Life® Program. Click here for more information about the Fund’s smoking cessation benefit or visit www.freeclear.com.
I need help to quit smoking. How many times can I speak with a counselor?
Services through the Free & Clear Quit For Life® Program include up to five coaching calls from a Quit Coach. These services are provided at no cost to you. Click here for more information about the Fund’s smoking cessation benefit or visit www.freeclear.com.
Does the Plan’s smoking cessation benefit cover the cost of prescription drugs?
The Free & Clear Quit For Life® Program is provided at no cost to you, but coverage does not include costs for prescription drugs. The program does include (among other things) one course of a pre-determined dosage of non-prescription Nicotine Replacement Therapy (such as the patch, gum, or lozenges) upon recommendation of a Quit Coach. Prescription smoking cessation products will be subject to the copayments and limitations outlined in the Prescription Drug Benefit Summary.
Click here for more information about the Fund’s smoking cessation benefit or visit www.freeclear.com.
