Benefits and mandatory retirement effective dates

Effective dates for benefits and mandatory retirement plans are provided below after enrollment is completed within 30 calendar days of hire or eligibility date.

Benefits

If hired or newly-eligible on or after Sept. 16, 2013, coverage is effective the first day of the pay period following the hire or eligibility date or completion of enrollment, whichever is later. Benefits are not effective on the eligibility date.

Completion of enrollment means submittal of a completed benefits enrollment change form and supporting documentation within 30-calendar days of hire or eligibility date, whether coverage is elected or waived.  After the 30-day deadline, elections may be made during the annual open enrollment period or with a qualifying life event.
Note: Allow 10 business days for benefits processing following completion of enrollment.

Exceptions are made when rehired or transferred within the Arizona University System — ASU, ABOR, NAU and UA — or from an Arizona state agency as follows:

• If you are a rehire within 30 days of separation from benefits-eligible employment, your coverage will be effective on your date of hire. An enrollment form is required, but elections must remain the same.
• If you are a transfer within 30 days of separation from employment, your coverage will be effective on your hire date or the first day of the pay period following the termination of prior coverage, whichever is later.  There may be a lapse in coverage.  An enrollment form is required, but elections must remain the same.
• If you are a rehire after 30 days but before one year following separation, online enrollment is required. Your coverage is effective on the first day of the pay period following your rehire date and receipt of the enrollment form.

Retirement plans

Arizona State Retirement System plan and long-term disability participation begin on the first day of the pay period following a 182-calendar day waiting period. Exception: If you have an active ASRS account or were hired before July 20, 2011, participation begins on your hire or eligibility date. Retroactive contributions may be required.

Optional Retirement System and MetLife long-term disability participation begins on the first day of the pay period following completion of enrollment. Note: Completed enrollment means you have elected ORP through the enrollment website or your election form has been submitted to OHR Benefits and an ORP account has been established with your chosen investment provider.

Public Safety Personnel Retirement System and MetLife long-term disability participation begins on the first day of the pay period containing the 91st day of employment. Exception: If you are already a member of the PSPRS, participation begins on your hire or eligibility date. 

Ask HR or HR Faculty Services at 480-727-9900 if you have inquiries. eFax confidential information to the benefits and leaves the team at 480-993-0007 or the retirement team at 480-993-0008.