[ Human Resources ]

HR News & FAQs

July 22, 2008

Tuition Remission – Academic Year 2008-2009
We ask that you submit your tuition remission requests to the Human Resources Office by August 4, 2008.  If you are supporting step-children in the requests, please complete a Step-Child Dependency Certification Form.  The date of August 4, also applies to grants offered for graduate programs or ELSA attendance. 


Our Non-Discrimination and Non-Harassment Policy was revised on July 1, 2008 and distribution recently completed.  The new policy does not change our requirements or core commitment in any manner; but it does specify some examples regarding actions toward students.

Later during Fall 2007, the College will initiate a sexual harassment training program on-line.  Each year, we are faced with sexual harassment complaints in the workplace and the personal anguish caused is significant. 

Initial reviews of the on-line training find it to be particularly suitable to our College community.


Are you approaching 65?  If so, please remember to visit your local Social Security Administration three months before that birthday, even if you don’t intend to retire.  The nearest office is at:230 West Lake Street, Bloomingdale, IL, phone: 1/800-325-0778.


Supplemental Retirement Annuity Contributions
With annual pay increases becoming effective this summer, now may be the time to increase your supplemental contribution to your retirement plan. 

The pretax dollar limit amount on your personal contributions to your 403(b) retirement plan (TIAA-CREF) is set at $15,500 for 2008.  If you are 50 or older, catch-up contributions can be up to an additional $5,000.  You can start or change your supplemental retirement annuity contribution by completing a salary reduction form in the Human Resources Office. 


Social Security Launches New Reitrement Estimator 
Social Security is proud to announce the new “Retirement Estimator” at www.socialsecurity.gov  Getting a personalized online estimate of your future retirement benefits is now easier than ever before. 

The Retirement Estimator is a planning tool that allows you to get an immediate and personalized estimate of your potential Social Security retirement benefit.

The Retirement Estimator is convenient.  Since it is tied to your Social Security earnings record, there is no need to manually enter years of earnings information.  The Retirement Estimator is also interactive, allowing you to compare different retirement options by changing your “stop work” dates of expected earnings.

The Retirement Estimator is secure.  To protect your privacy, only your benefit estimates are provided online. The Retirement Estimator does not reveal any personal information, such as your address, earnings or other information.   

Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator to see just how easy it is to get an accurate estimate of your future benefits. 



FAQs 

Did my vision provider change? 
Yes, effective January 1, 2008 the vision provider for PPO members changed from EyeMed Vision care to Davis Vision.  Effective July 1, 2008 the vision provider for HMO members changed also from EyeMed Vision care to Davis Vision.  Blue Cross and Blue Shield sent notices to the homes of the members before the change actually took place. 


How do I find a vision provider? 
Go to www.bcbsil.com, click on provider finder on the left side, click on find a vision provider on the right side, click on vision provider for HMO members or non HMO members, click on online search, enter zip code or city and state and click search now. 


How do I find a provider for my medical coverage?
Go to www.bcbsil.com, click on provider finder on the left side, click on group under Select Health plan, Select your health plan, PPO, HMO Illinois or Blue Advantage HMO, search by name or provider type, click on go and follow the rest of the instructions.

Do I have to fill out this Unum Life Insurance form I received? 
Yes, we have changed carriers effective July 1, 2008 and it would be a nice time to get updated information from everyone. 

How can I learn more about my health and making health changes? 
Go to www.bcbsil.com and register for Blue Access for Members and log in and select Personal Health Manager. 

You can use this online wellness resource to: 

Make healthier choices about food, start a fitness program, quit smoking - and keep track of your results.  
Get health and wellness questions answered by nurses, dietitians, fitness trainers and life coaches.
Learn about your health, possible health risks and what you can do.
Stay motivated to reach your goals - when you use many of the features of the Pesonal Health Manager, you automatically earn Blue Points that can be redeemed for reward items.