Benefits Bash proves understanding benefits doesn't have to be scary

Human Resources is hoping this year's Benefits Bash will make understanding employee benefits a little less scary. The Benefits Bash will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 29 in the University Center East, rooms 2217 and 2218 and will feature a Halloween theme complete with treats and goodie bags. Vendors will be stationed in rooms 2219 and 2220 and will provide information and give presentations. Employees can check the schedule of presentation times for specific topics (listed below).

Participants can stop by any time during the event. Employees also should bring their USI ID to be registered to win door prizes.

"We want our employees to come out and empower themselves with knowledge," said Nancy Lumley, manager of benefits. "There are a myriad of services included in our benefits that our employees don't know about and that could really impact them financially or from a wellness perspective." For example, many employees may not be aware of some of the new federally mandated preventative services covered under their plans, such as flu shots or mammogram and colonoscopy screenings. Human Resources will be available to help participants understand the details and to answer questions.

"One of the worst ways to find out about a benefit is after something has happened to you and you find out it could have been covered," said Lumley. "This is an educational institution and we want our employees to learn what's available and get the biggest bang for their buck."

Open enrollment runs from October 29 to November 12, with changes taking effect January 1, 2015.

For more information contact Nancy Lumley at 812-464-1988 or nlumley@usi.edu.