FAQ'S UFCW Local 227 Health and Welfare Fund Coverage*
Q: When do I become eligible for benefits?
A: Each employer* has different eligibility rules. Check your contract or ask your Steward or Area Representative.
Q: What family members are covered?
A: Each employer is different as to when Family coverage is available. Family coverage includes an employee's lawful spouse and each unmarried child of an employee until the last day of the month in which the child attains age 19 provided the child is fully dependent on the employee for support and maintenance and resides with the employee on a full-time basis. An exception would be in accordance with the terms of a court order. A detailed description of an eligible dependent is on page 86 of the Summary Plan Description (SPD).
Q: What if my eligible dependent is in college?
A: All eligible dependents from age 19 until the end of the month they are 23 can continue in the Plan as a dependent if they are attending a high school or an accredited college or university on a full-time basis (12 accredited hours). Full-time student status letters are available at each college registrars office and must be submitted each semester to the Plan office for continued coverage.
Q: Do I have life insurance under the plan?
A: Full-time employees of Kroger, Southern Bell Dairy, Banks, Ron Russell, and Jackson House have $15,000 life and an additional $7,500 accidental death and dismemberment. Kroger and Banks Part-time participants have $2,500 life and $2,500 accidental death and dismemberment. The policy is through Anthem Life please see the Summary Plan Description for more detailed information.
Q: How will I know when I qualify for Full-time dependent coverage?
A: You will be notified by the Plan office when you qualify. It is 48 months after qualifying for Full-time single coverage.
Q: Can you clarify Kroger part-time eligibility?
A: After 1 year of service a part-time employee is eligible to sign a declaration form. All part-time employees must sign a declaration form annually to retain coverage. Declaration forms are available each October at your store. Upon receiving the form the Plan Office sends the employee a benefit package that includes, coverages, cost, and enrollment forms. A new enrollment form is required each year regardless of the length of service.
Q: How much do I pay for an office visit?
A: All office visit co-pays for all of the various medical plans is $20.00.
Q: If I leave employment how long do I have benefits?
A: Benefits terminate the last day of the month in which you leave employment
Q: Do I have vision coverage?
A: The vision coverage is thru AVESIS. Members and their dependents are able to have exams and new glasses every two years. Members must go to Avesis providers. A list of providers can be found at their website which is linked to on the sidebar. If you need a card or need to check on your last date of service call 1-800-828-9341.
